“The angel went to her and said, ‘Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you,’” Luke 1:28 NIV
Startled, young Mary was scared at the sudden appearance of an angel.
She hadn’t received a written notice of Gabriel’s impending arrival. Her mother probably never instructed her on how to entertain angels. Mary simply had no idea what to do!
But the angel set her at ease and Mary regained at least some of her composure as she listened intently to the words carried by this heavenly messenger.
She could not comprehend it all and she asked clarifying questions.
The angel answered her honestly and gently reminded her to have faith.
Mary had had plans for her future: Marry her betrothed, settle down and have some children, Lord willing. A baby in the womb before the wedding wasn’t part of that plan.
Yet, when God interrupted her future, how did she respond?
“I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered, “May it be to me as you have said.” Luke 1:38 NIV
No pity party.
No argument.
No instruction.
No pride over being God’s chosen.
Just servant humility,
Humble servitude to her God.
When my plans get interrupted, honestly, I don’t usually respond as graciously. I had plans for a reason. They are usually well-thought out, organized, and intentional, thank you very much!
How about you? How do you handle interruptions? Big or small, they are often more than just an inconvenience. Yet, in the midst of a divine intrusion, does the idea that God has even this enter our minds?
We are bound to find ourselves in situations we never dreamed of, never would have authored. Yet, when we do, can we turn to Him? Can we too say, “May it be to me as you have spoken.” May I have the faith and attitude like that young girl, Mary.
Mary set aside her plans and graciously allowed the Lord to work His will in her life, as well as her heart. He not only changed her life, but mine and your’s as well.
Prayer: Dear Heaven Father, Please help me to trust You more. I need to turn to You with interruptions. Remind me that divine intrusions rarely only benefit me, but just may help others as well. Grow my faithfulness so that I may yield to Your story for my life, and help others find You. Thank You for Mary’s example of faithfulness, and for her obedience to You. Through her faith, and Your authorship of love and grace, I can reunite with You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.