Monday of the Fourth Week of Advent December 22, 2003 King of All the Nations, Keystone of the Mighty Arch of Humankind! Scripture: 1 Samuel 1:24-28; Luke 1:46-56 Reflection: Today we read of the unexpected and miraculous pregnancies of Mary and Hannah. Both women answered in poetic praise to God's goodness _ Mary in her Magnificat and Hannah in her Exultation. We have had many "surprises" in our lives, both happy and sad, and have responded to them in our own fashion with God's help. Think of these experiences for a moment and recall how they fostered our spiritual growth. Let us continue to give ourselves to the Lord as both these women did and ask him to strengthen our dedication to his will. Suggested Action: In preparation for Jesus' coming, pray for the grace to reply to all God's biddings with our personal canticles of praise and joy. Sr. Mary Earley, IHM Scranton, Pennsylvania