May It Be

Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I am a virgin?” The angel answered and said to her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; and for that reason the holy Child shall be called the Son of God. And behold, even your relative Elizabeth has also conceived a son in her old age; and she who was called barren is now in her sixth month. For nothing will be impossible with God.” Luke 1:34-37

The Holy Spirit really wants us to get this six-month thing. It must be important in the interrelationship of Jesus and his cousin John. Also, the issue of Mary's virginity is emphasized. She certainly would have known, wouldn't she? Her question is logical. "How?" She didn't deny the possibility, like Zecharias or laugh, like Sarah. Mary was not only virginal, but was obviously a woman of faith. This is the woman God chose to be the mother of His Only Son's humanity. As we see her response to Gabriel's startling announcement, we begin to understand why she was considered worthy of this mission.

Gabriel honored her by explaining the mechanics involved. How will it happen? Sovereign, omnipotent God will make it happen. What God has promised, He will do. Elizabeth's pregnancy in her old age will be a testimony to Mary that God is preparing the way for His Son.

Luke 1:38 And Mary said, “Behold, the bondslave of the Lord; may it be done to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her.

That is faith, brethren. That is submission to God's will. That is obedience. This young woman is about to devote the rest of her life to being the mother of Jesus' humanity. It could not possibly be easy. She and Joseph are facing humiliation and hardship and hurt that they cannot comprehend, but God has chosen her, and she is willing.

I want that kind of faith.