And the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus” (Luke 1:30-31).
The angel Gabriel assures Mary there is no need to fear, then says she’s found favor with God. Sounds good, but what does the favor of God look like? For Mary, it means being pregnant before she is married and giving birth in less than optimal circumstances. Gabriel’s message is a lot to process, but Mary responds, “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word” (Luke 1:38).
Finding favor with God doesn’t mean taking it easy. But Mary considers her unusual situation as a privilege. She uses it as an opportunity to praise God, saying, “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has looked on the humble estate of his servant. For behold, from now on all generations will call me blessed; for he who is mighty has done great things for me, and holy is his name” (Luke 1:46–49).
Lord, forgive us for getting caught up in what we think our life should look like. Help us see the “great things” you have done in our lives so we can give you all the praise.
