Advent Day 18

“Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favor with God.” Luke 1:30

We’ve seen images of angels many times: in paintings, in TV shows, and movies. And whenever they appear, they usually have wings, are arrayed in robes, shining with a glorious light. No wonder Mary was afraid and confused: she had never seen a being like an angel before. She had found favor with God? In what way?

And she was chosen to bear the long-awaited Messiah. Why her? What made her so special? Her only doubt was how – a perfectly logical question. “Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favor with God.” Luke 1:30

Mary’s response was one of faith, “May your word to me be fulfilled.” A risky response. We aren’t told if she wondered how she would tell her family, her neighbors, and most of all how she was going to tell Joseph.

Mary’s response was also one of humility – she didn’t take this blessing for granted or consider herself deserving of it. Because of this we have the greatest blessing of all – the Lord Jesus Christ who has saved us from our sins so that we may have an eternal home with Him and God the Father.

Like Mary, let us receive this blessing with humility and gratitude. We will take a great risk; family and friends may turn their backs on us. We could face persecution. If we refuse to do something because of our beliefs, there may be consequences. But God has assured us He will always be with us and meet our every need. Let that assurance be in our hearts always.

Dear Heavenly Father, help us to receive all Your blessings with grateful and humble hearts, for all blessings are given out of Your perfect love. Amen. ~Roberta Nylen