What’s Happening?

Luke 1:29-30 Mary was greatly troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be. 30 But the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, you have found favor with God.”
 
IN our last lesson, we focused on the wonder of God extending his eternal salvation favor into our lives. Yes, it is joyful news to hear, “You have found favor (grace) with God.”
    But for some of us, we may have some reservations to hear such news. Have you ever had someone come to you and say, “You are so gifted. You’re just the right person for…?” Maybe you thought, “Now what? I don’t have time for another job or responsibility. Maybe if I don’t say anything, maybe if I play dumb, he’ll go away, and I can go home.” New things to do can be uncomfortable and troublesome. It’s better to keep life simple.
    We don’t know all of Mary’s thoughts here, but Mary certainly knew dramatic change was coming into her life. No longer be simple for her. God’s messenger was talking to her. His appearance stunned her. His greeting disturbed her. “What could he possibly want? Why would God speak to me?”
    Mary knew God’s history. She knew he came to average people, and he directed them to do great things for him. She knew about Moses, Joshua, Rahab, Gideon, Ruth, Elijah, Nehemiah and all the others. She knew God had favored a murderer, a prostitute, a fearful farmer, and even some faithful ones to do his will on earth. She knew God sent his favored ones to do humanly impossible tasks.
    That’s why she was troubled. A message from God is life-changing. She wasn’t sure she wanted her life to change.
    Sound familiar?
 
Prayer: Change my heart, oh God, to feel and enjoy your favor to do the impossible. In Jesus’ name, amen.