It’s Part 1 of the Christmas story.
The angel Gabriel appeared to Mary. This teenaged girl from Nazareth was “greatly troubled.”
The angel said, “Do not be afraid.” He then told her that even though she was a virgin, she would bear God’s son.
A pregnancy miracle by the power of the Holy Spirit.
And what was her response to all this news? “I am the Lord’s servant. May it be to me as you have said.”
Imagine Mary’s experience:
• She saw and talked with an angel
• She was told she would have a baby even though she was a virgin
• She was told that the power of God would overshadow her
Extraordinary or impossible.
Surely Mary felt afraid and confused, but look at her response recorded in Luke 1:26-38. She was willing to do anything God wanted her to do.
God had a plan, and He chose Mary to carry it out. It was an impossible plan as far as Mary was concerned. It was a fearful plan, since pregnancy outside of marriage could result in stoning.
But it was clearly God’s plan.
Mary chose to trust God and be available. She didn’t let her fear stop her from being used for God’s purposes.
What has God chosen you to do? How have you worked through the fear?
© 2012 GateWay of Hope Ministries