Happy Friday! It is time for your daily devotion. Some have callings on their lives involving the miraculous or supernatural. Being chosen to be the mother of Jesus is one such calling. For Mary, understandably, the news came as quite a shock. In today’s daily devotion, declare that no matter God’s assignment, you’ll be on board with the task.
The Annunciation
God’s plan to usher in the Messiah was about to be fulfilled, and He dispatched the angel Gabriel to make heavenly visitations to those chosen to play a part. Gabriel had visited Zacharias six months prior and announced to him the birth of his son, John, the forerunner of Christ. Then Gabriel is sent to Nazareth to a virgin named Mary who is espoused to Joseph. In Luke 1:28, Gabriel greets her with a salutation of honor and distinction: “Hail, thou that art highly favoured, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women.”
Mary is somewhat confused at this, as Gabriel continues with the Annunciation. In verse 31, He announces God’s divine purpose: “And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name Jesus.” In your daily devotion, whatever God calls you to do should be received with humility and praise.
The Magnificat
In Mary’s espousal, her relationship hasn’t been consummated. In verse 34, she asks the obvious question: “How shall this be, seeing I know not a man?” However, God always has the details worked out. Gabriel explains, “The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God.”
This is incredible news, since the Messiah had been prophesied for centuries; Isaiah prophesied that Christ would be born of a virgin. Mary had no idea she’d be the one chosen, yet she believed God’s word spoken by Gabriel. In verse 38, Mary responds, “Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word.” In this daily devotion, have an attitude and willingness to accept God’s charge, and learn to pivot by adjusting to His plan.
Faith in God’s Word
After the angel departs from Mary, her excitement is perhaps mixed with questioning how Joseph will receive the news. Although Joseph struggles at first, he accepts his role after Gabriel visits him in a dream. Then he takes Mary as his wife. Faith in God’s word removes all doubts, freeing you from doubters. In your daily devotion, rejoice that when God speaks, you don’t need confirmation. His word is enough.
The Greatest Assignment
The angel has given Mary many things to think about. The Son of God will be named Jesus. God will give Him David’s throne; moreover, “He shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end.” Mary receives the greatest veneration among women because of her immaculate conception. Mary accepts this high honor and glorifies God. In today’s daily devotion, Mary teaches others to receive God’s assignment with joy.
Nothing is Impossible
In Friday’s daily devotion, don’t argue, debate, or question; rather, accept what God has ordained for your life. Gabriel declares to Mary, “For with God nothing shall be impossible.” God orchestrated His plan to bring Christ into the world, sending Gabriel to visit His key players and announce their roles. Mary’s role was to give birth to Jesus and rear Him with Joseph. In your daily devotion, ask yourself, “What role am I fulfilling in God’s kingdom?”
Disclaimer: This article contains a summary of Luke 1:28 as well as interpretive insights from the author. Interpretations of biblical texts can differ, and this piece represents one approach to understanding the passage.
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