Waiting: Day 8

Sunday December 7, 2025

In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David.

And the virgin’s name was Mary. And he came to her and said, “Greetings, O favored one, the Lord is with you!” but she was greatly troubled at the saying,

and tried to discern what sort of greeting this might be.

Luke 1:26-29, English Standard Version

It would seem that Elizabeth is about six months into her pregnancy as the story shifts from her and Zechariah to Mary and Joseph who are planning a wedding. Once again, Gabriel plays a central role in the action.

He pops in for a visit with Mary, proclaiming, “Greetings, O favored one, the Lord is with you!” Upon hearing that, she’s “greatly troubled” and struggling to figure out what it all means.

It’s easy, with the benefit of 2000 years of Christian history, and in light of knowing how the story unfolds, to shake our heads in bewilderment at Mary’s response. We’d all be jumping at the chance to do whatever God called us to do, especially if His heavenly emissary addressed us as “O favored one.” Right?

But, before we condemn young Mary, think about other folks in the Bible who received calls from God. Jeremiah argued that he was too young and didn’t know how to speak. Isaiah contends that he’s a sinner living among a bunch of sinners. Moses tells God that the people won’t listen to him because he’s a poor speaker. Gideon claims that he’s the least in his family, and they’re all a bunch of losers to boot. Jonah flees to Tarshish rather than going to Ninevah as God commanded him. There’s a pretty good tradition of people being reluctant when the Almighty issues an invitation.

I personally think that’s understandable, even wise. Following God can be challenging, difficult, harrowing. It is not an easy task. Jesus Himself warned of deprivation, ridicule, persecution, even death. And Mary, though young, is smart enough to know her life is about to change in a spectacular way. God has a way of doing that, doesn’t He?