The Angel Gabriel from Heaven Came
The angel Gabriel from heaven came,
His wings as drifted snow, his eyes as flame;
“All hail,” said he, “O lowly maiden Mary,”
“For know a blessed mother you shall be,
all generations praise continually,
Your Son shall be Emmanuel, by seers foretold.
“Then gentle Mary meekly bowed her head,
“To me be as it pleases God,” she said,
“My soul shall laud and magnify God’s holy name.”
Inside, on a pillar, in the Regensburg Cathedral in Germany is a statue of Gabriel. This magnificent cathedral is regarded as one of the finest Gothic buildings in Bavaria. When you enter, your eyes are drawn to the majesty of this beautiful structure. First, most visitors notice the massive and majestic stained glass windows. The sun behind them casts warmth and new life to the grey stone interior. A visit to this cathedral creates memories filled with awe and appreciation.
As massive and impressive as it is, it’s what’s on that pillar that so many visitors remember – the statue of Gabriel. It is called the “Smiling Angel.” Gabriel’s joy is directed across the nave to another statue – one of Mary. Mary is portrayed as a diminutive, young woman – maybe as young as 12 or 13—with downcast eyes and with a look of wonder on her face. If you look closely you see Mary is beginning to return Gabriel’s smile. You can’t help but imagine the wonder she must have felt when she received his message. At that point, you are compelled to look again at Gabriel and realize the joy they both reflect, has spread to you. I can only imagine what Gabriel or Mary must have felt. When he, for the first time shared the Good News of our Savior’s birth and for Mary to know of the Christ child she would bear – there must have been such joy for both.
During this season of New Birth and promise may we all reflect and share their wonder and joy. Luke 1:26-38
O God of wonder and joy, during this season of New Birth, let us live lives where our souls loved and magnify you. Amen.
Carol Brown
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