Read: Luke 1
The heavenly messenger delivered a humanly impossible message. First, there was the declaration that this young virgin Mary was favored by God, chosen by the Almighty Father to be the mother of the Messiah. Then there was the proclamation that she would conceive and give birth to a son who would rescue men from their sins.
Mary’s reaction could have been one of obstinate reluctance and objection. This was going to change her life. People would forever look at her differently. Some would view her with judgmental scorn. Others would see her as an unworthy choice because of her youth and poverty. It’s no wonder that she was troubled, confused by the message. How could this be? Surely this must be a dream? She needed clarification for something that was going beyond the natural order of things.
Gabriel explained that God would wonderfully and powerfully work in Mary’s life to bring forth this holy child, pure from the taint of sin. As Mary heard the answer, she recognized that the Sovereign Creator was using her as an instrument of his glorious redemption plan. She was to give birth to the one who would fulfill God’s promise that originated in the Garden of Eden after the fall of humanity (Gen. 3:15).
Her humble obedience is an exemplary model of servant leadership that has been remembered throughout the years.
PRAYER PROMPT: Heavenly Father, may Mary’s response be our response, “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word…” (Luke 1:38). Amen.
Kevin Carrothers serves as director of missions for Salem South Baptist Association.