The story of Jesus’ coming into the world is one that’s known by many people. The Gospel writer, Luke, gives us many details about that event in Luke Chapters 1 and 2. I would encourage you to read those chapters so that you can see God’s amazing hand at work in time and history.
One of the most amazing figures in the Gospel story is Mary, the mother of our Lord. For when we read the events concerning her, we can see that she is a humble, God-fearing woman, who desires above all things to do God’s will and to honour Him with her life. For if you read Luke 1:26-56, you will see her godly character. And when you read her song of praise in vv.46-55 you will also see her faith.
For she believed God’s promise that He would send a deliverer for His people to save them from their sins and deliver them from their enemies. Thus, it’s no surprise to see Mary’s humble response to the arrival of the angel Gabriel and his message that she would give birth to God’s child of promise. And what a child He would be!
Gabriel says, “He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever, his kingdom will never end.” (vv.32-33)
Even more amazing is the news that this child would not have an earthly father but would be conceived in her by the Holy Spirit! The angel says, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So, the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God.” (v.35)
Yes, Mary’s baby would be both God and man. Can you imagine receiving such news? And yet, when we hear these amazing things about Jesus’ arrival and His mighty work, we need to respond as Mary did – with faith! For she believed God’s message, as amazing as it sounded! She trusted in God’s word and believed that all these things would take place just as He said! What trust she had, and what thankfulness as well! For she would carry God’s own Son.
She was chosen for this great task above all others. And that joy would stay with her all her life.
Yes friends, let us stand in awe as we ponder this gracious act of God in sending His Son one and only Son into the world for our salvation! For this salvation in Jesus is a free gift! You don’t have to earn it or work for it. It comes to us by God’s grace and is to be embraced by humble faith! Yes, what amazing, good news came to Mary! And it’s the same good news that comes to us today!
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Ancel Merwin serves as pastor at Immanuel United Reformed Church of Listowel.
