Monday, December 21, 2020

But the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favor with God. You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus.   

Luke 1:30-31
“The Annunciation” by Carl Blouch image from Etsy.com

Unprecedented, uncertain, unnatural, unfathomable – words that have us rethinking our lives during this unbelievable pandemic!  As we reflect during this season of Advent though, these words can also be applied to the many emotions Mary must have been feeling after her encounter with the angel sent from God. 

Unprecedented – An angel not only revealing herself to Mary, but sharing with her a message from God.

Uncertain – Mary thinking “is this really happening to me?”  

Unnatural – Poor Mary grappling with the idea of expecting a child that did not occur under normal conditions and already knowing his gender and name. 

Unfathomable – How will she relay this angel encounter and message to her beloved Joseph, let alone the rest of her family and friends?  Who would believe her?   

The birthing of a baby, both animal and human, is truly a miracle.  Those that have had the privilege of birthing a child and/or witnessing births know the range of emotions it stirs up – anticipation, waiting, worry, joy . . .  

With Mary, her emotions were probably so much more.  This was not just her child, this was a child she was bearing for all of mankind— the son of God— Jesus!   What a responsibility, but yet Mary rose to the occasion.  Her strong, unwavering, faith carried her through the nine months ahead and beyond.   

As we prepare for this wonderful season, may we remember Mary and how faith in God and His son helps us know we can get through anything – even a pandemic.  

Peggy Hart