Greetings, you who are highly favored!
The angel went to her and said, 'Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.' (Matthew 1:28)
These words were supernaturally spoken to a young teenage girl. I wonder if Mary did feel she was 'highly favored', especially when confronted with public disgrace?
Much conjecture has chased every piece of the Christmas story. It is either 'bought' or jettisoned.
Yet, for those who are not dismissive, the young Mary was surely in dismay and tears?
No doubt Gabriel spoke in silken tones, held soft and caring eyes and assured her there was no need to fear. Still, Mary was greatly troubled.
Mary was highly favored although this was not as she felt.
Her favor arose through being:
- chosen to bear God's Son
- honored in all annals of time since Jesus' birth, and
- trusted by God.
But the question must be asked:
how often did Mary's blessing also become a burden? Remember, she watched at the foot of His cross!
Each Christmas is Jesus' invitation for all of us to re-think our burdens as blessings, even if the darkness is thicker than any very cold night.
Today's Soul Snippet:
'Vanity is the fruit of ignorance.' ~ Alexander Ross