Blessed Slavery

Read Luke 1:26-38

“Rejoice, favored woman! The Lord is with you,” came the message from the angelic being. Mary’s hesitation to join in the celebration is understandable. After all, this is an angel standing before her; a supernatural being speaking directly to her. This wasn’t exactly her everyday experience, and this was the same angel that sent the prophet Daniel sprawling facedown in terror at the mere sight of such a being (Daniel 8:16-17). Yet something deeper was troubling Mary; something beyond the pure magnificence of the scenario in which she found herself. It was as if she anticipated a calling on her life; one that would almost certainly be difficult. For what possible reason could God be sending this angel to her?

And then came the message that would alter her life, both now and for eternity, and establish her name forever in the pages of the indestructible word of God.

“Mary, you are going to give birth to a son…God’s Son.”

The news had to have hit her with the force of a million volts. The vast spectrum of emotions she had to have experienced must have been astounding. Why would God consider her for such a privilege, such a responsibility, such suffering? What would her family think? What would her friends think? How does a young virgin woman explain to those who know her that she is with child…God’s child? And most of all, what about…Joseph?

There is no question Mary’s road would be difficult. Yet her confidence, hope, and peace lay not in her own strength. She was a young woman whose bedrock was unshakeable. She knew the God of Israel, and she trusted in His goodness. Therefore, her response to the herald’s message was most appropriate:

“I am the Lord’s slave…may it be done to me according to your word.”

Starter Prayer:
Father,
Give me faith like Mary’s. I know I won’t always understand the ways you are at work in my life, and I know the things you ask of me won’t always be easy, but, like Mary, let me always consider it a privilege to be called your servant. You are the greatest of masters. There is no more joy-filled place to be than under your reign.
Amen.