As I sip coffee in the gentle light of the Christmas tree, change is in the air. Last year there were six decorating the tree, laughing, chatting and remembering. This year, only three. The void is undeniable. Change is crummy and uncomfortable. My heart is stuck between what was and will be. As I contemplate change in my life, I am struck by the change Mary experienced after a visit from an angel.
Luke 1:26-38 tells the dramatic story. Mary‘s life was completely changed in a few short verses. Change was ushered in by a perplexing statement, “Greetings, favored one, God is with you. Don’t be afraid”
If the first statement was perplexing, the next seemed impossible. “You will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall name Him Jesus.” Mary responds with the one question she must have an answer to, how will a virgin conceive a child?
Did she have more questions? As a fellow female, I imagine she did, especially after the angel left.
When? What? Where? Why? When?
I am guilty of wanting all the details. I want to know how everything is going to turn out, how each unexpected bump will be resolved. Scripture reminds us to trust God daily for provision (Matt. 6:11), and not to worry about tomorrow (Matt. 6:34).
I don’t believe she knew exactly what she was saying “yes” to when she replied“may it be done to me according to your word.” She couldn’t have known she was saying yes to giving birth in a barn, witnessing fantastic miracles, standing at the foot of a brutal cross or the rim of an empty tomb.
Mary didn’t know what, but she knew Who.
God called Mary to step in to change. Change that would be hard, uncomfortable, difficult and beyond what she could have imagined. As she entered this season, she received the affirmation that she was favored and not alone. No part of this season of change required her to go it alone. She was chosen for hard and change becauseGod loved her.
Favored one, God is with you. Do not be afraid.
The message delivered by the angel was not just for Mary, it’s for all who believe the story of her son. God declared His favor in being made flesh and affirmed His presence with the name Immanuel, God with us.
Change can be crummy and uncomfortable, but also full of possibility. Mary‘s life and ultimately the future of mankind were changed when she said yes. “Yes” did not mean easy, quick or without questions. Her yes delivered the greatest joy and deepest heartache a mother could know.
Favored one, God is with you! Regardless of the voices, circumstances or unanswered questions that cause you to think or feel otherwise. You are not alone. Remember who is with you in your season of change, the One with the power and authority to work it together for your good.
