Scripture to Read: Luke 1:28-33
Today, no one could imagine an angel showing up at our home and saying, “Greetings, favored one!”? Mary had good reason for being perplexed (troubled). She kept wondering why she would be receiving such a greeting. Being called “favored one” should have calmed any fear Mary might have had, but we read in Luke 1:30 that Gabriel said to Mary, “Do not be afraid,” so Mary definitely was fearful in the first moment or so.“Favored” means “grace,” which speaks of unearned favor. When Gabri- el called Mary “favored one,” it showed that there was nothing in Mary that earned her this acknowledgment. In other words, Mary was just like everyone else: a sinner. Mary needed God’s grace, just like all sinners. God chose to show Mary His favor, not because she deserved it but because God chose to give it. God chose to give all mankind His favor through our Lord Jesus Christ. Everyone who chooses to receive God’s favor by surren- dering to Christ as Lord is forever a child of God the Father. Ga- briel let Mary know God’s plan for her and how God would use her to give birth to the King of all kings. God used Gabriel to share with Mary that Jesus is the Son of God, the Messiah that had been spoken of throughout the Old Testament. Jesus is the One True King of a kingdom that is eternal. Mary received in- credible news from one of God’s archangels. That same incredi- ble news is just as incredible today, which is why we must share this news with all.
Challenge & Application
• If an archangel showed up to bring you a message from God, how would you react, and what would you tell others?
• God performed a greater miracle by filling you with His Holy Spirit. How are you sharing with others how God has changed your life?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!