Preparing

God came to rescue. God promised to send a deliverer “as he said through his holy prophets of long ago.” In Jesus, this promise was fulfilled. Jesus came to rescue us from the world, from our sin, from the devil, and from death.

Not everyone knew about Gabriel’s visit to Zechariah regarding the birth of John the Baptist, the one who would prepare the way for Jesus. But the manner of his birth to parents well past childbearing age, and Zechariah’s recovered speech left them “filled with awe.” They knew that this child was destined for a special assignment, “For the Lord’s hand was with him.”

The angel told Mary that her cousin, Elizabeth, who was well beyond childbearing years, was six months pregnant. As soon as the angel left, Mary hurried to the hill country. Seeing Elizabeth’s pregnancy confirmed to Mary that Gabriel’s visit was not a dream; she would indeed give birth to the Son of God.

Mary concludes her prayer with the reminder that God had not forgotten His people, Israel. His promise to the nation’s ancestors was about to be fulfilled. The Messiah was on His way!

Mary’s great song of praise continued as she proclaimed the “mighty deeds” of God. God’s arm is a symbol of His power and action. His strength is not limited to the heavens. His might is seen as He reaches down and does His work among people on earth.

The visit from the angel Gabriel was frightening and the news was unbelievable, but Mary surrendered to God’s will. When the angel’s words to her were confirmed by her visit to Elizabeth, who was with child in her old age, Mary burst into song. Her song is filled with Scripture and truth about God

Many times when God calls us to do great things, He gives us proof that He is at work. In the Old Testament, He proved Himself to Moses, Joshua, and Gideon. In the New Testament, He proved Himself to the disciples and Paul on the road to Damascus.

Many people believe that they can draw up the terms of their relationship with Jesus. But that’s not how it works. Everyone who truly wants to follow hard after Jesus must come to a place of surrender.

God chose a small-town girl for a big-time mission. John Donne described it as “immensity cloistered in thy dear womb.” Through Mary, the eternal God made His way into the temporal world. Indeed, the Lord was with her.