December 10, 2024

Luke 1:34-38  (HCSB)
34 Mary asked the angel, “How can this be, since I have not been intimate with a man?” 35 The angel replied to her: “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. Therefore, the holy One to be born will be called the Son of God. 36 And consider your relative Elizabeth—even she has conceived a son in her old age, and this is the sixth month for her who was called childless. 37 For nothing will be impossible with God.” 38 “I am the Lord’s slave,” said Mary. “May it be done to me according to your word.” Then the angel left her.

Mark Stephens
It is clear Mary had an understanding of how procreating worked. Her question to Gabriel was valid. Gabriel had to expect it was coming. Her question must have been acceptable because he answered without repercussions. Unlike Zechariah (Luke 1:19-20), he has little to say in this period (read the whole chapter, and that will make sense). She was willing, no matter how little sense this made to a human. Mary was about to embark on a journey that would not be easy. This situation could be disastrous for Mary. She faced inevitable rejection from Joseph, rejection from her family, a cloud of shame cast over her, and being labeled for the rest of her life. The last verse is the best and sheds some light on why God found "favor" in her. Unwavering obedience. God may not ask us to complete a task as complex as Mary's, but our obedience should be at Mary's level. And with that, I wish you a happy Tuesday. Be blessed, Temple.