Word for the day Christian Education Forum

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 Annunciation to the Virgin Mary

Luke 1:26-38
And Mary said, “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your Word.” Vs. 38

The text for today’s meditation is the narrative of the angel Gabriel’s announcement to Mary about the birth of Jesus. This was the prophetic fulfillment of the great salvation plan which was first promised to mankind in the Garden of Eden after the fall, for which God was using a young Jewish girl. Mary’s response is what makes her different from others, who expressed hesitance and or unbelief upon the visitation of God. When Moses was called to lead the Israelites out of Egypt, he had excuses and asked God to choose someone else for the task. For the Priest Zechariah, the birth announcement of John the Baptist was beyond comprehension due to the natural impossibility.  Mary had been entrusted with a mission which was beyond human understanding and logic. She was chosen for something that would bring humiliation and even death punishment. Yet, she humbly surrendered her body (Vs. 38), soul (Vs.46) and spirit (Vs.47), to the plan of God.
Mary’s humility: Gabriel told Mary that she is highly favored and God is with her; a salutation that would elate any human being. She was given the great privilege of being the mother of the Messiah, who would sit on the throne of David and reign forever; however, she responded with humility, submitting herself as His handmaid.
Mary’s faith: Mary had question about the impossibility of a virgin conceiving. Gabriel told her that the Holy Spirit will come upon her, the power of the mighty God will overshadow her, and that she will conceive a son (Vs. 35). She was assured about the God who can make all things possible with the news of Elizabeth’s pregnancy. She believed and trusted every word that was spoken and received the honor to be called as the most blessed woman by all generations (Vs. 45&48).
Mary’s obedience: For the grace she received, Mary responded in absolute obedience by saying “Let it be according to your Word”. She accepted God’s will in her life for the higher purpose; an obedience that brought great things from the Mighty and Holy God (Vs49) and changed the trajectory of her entire lifetime.
The Bible references show that Mary was faithful with what God entrusted her from the manger to the foot of the cross and throughout her life. Mary is a perfect model for all believers for humility, obedience and faith. Today also, the call for each Christian is to walk humbly, obey the Word of God and have total faith. When we submit to God’s higher call, He will strengthen and enable us with His grace, Word, and the Holy Spirit in times of unknowns and uncertainties.  

Prayer

 Lord, enlighten the eye of our heart to know the hope of your calling, and help us to respond in absolute submission.


Thought for the Day

 The grace of God and the Holy Spirit will enable us to live a life worthy of the Lord, and please Him in every way (Col. 1:10)

Saji Abey Cherian, St. Thomas MTC, Yonkers, NY

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