Devotion:
For an audio version of this devotion, click here.
Read Luke 1:31-33.
A really powerful method for understanding Scriptures, especially narratives or stories, is to place ourselves in the role of one of the characters. Imagine being Mary, likely barely a teenager, a virgin, and already promised to be married to Joseph. He is a carpenter in your village of Nazareth. You have taken the initial vows of marriage with him, so you are legally pledged to him. Joseph is a descendant of the great king David, but many generations have passed since David was king, and being his descendant does not bring any particular benefits.
Then, out of nowhere, appears the angel Gabriel, telling you that you will conceive, give birth to a son, and give him the name Jesus. He will be given the throne of his ancestor David, and his kingdom will never end. Perhaps the most amazing thing is that this baby will be called the Son of the Most High…God’s Son! You will be shocked, you will question how it can happen, and then you will submit to God’s will and be filled with joy. May we all be filled with joy at this announcement!
Personal Worship Option:
Gracious God, you choose common people like Mary and even me to carry out your will. Help me to be as full of faith and obedience as Mary was. And like Mary, fill me with the joy that comes with the birth of Christ into the world. Amen.
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