Tag: line of David
A Word from God
Scripture reading for March 4: Luke 1
“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. The angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and your shall call His Name Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. And the Lord God will give to Him the throne of His father David, and He will reign over the house of Jacob forever and of His kingdom there will be no end.”” Luke 1:26-33
Can you imagine the thoughts that went through Mary’s mind in this encounter with Gabriel, the angel sent from God’s throne? This angel was sent to a specific location and to a named individual and knew that that Mary was a virgin. He knew she was betrothed to Joseph, of the line of David. The angel understood Mary’s fear and bewilderment. The declaration that she was a ‘favored one’ and that the Lord was with her made her wonder and search for how to respond.
The next statement would really shake her world view: she was to become pregnant and bear a Son, but not any son, the Son of the Most High! This Son was to be given the Name Jesus and He would become a King ruling on the throne of David. His rule would be over all Jacob and His kingdom was eternal! Mary, seeking understanding, asked how this might take place since she was a virgin. The angel helped her see and understand with another clear Word from God: “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore the child to be born will be called holy–the Son of God.” Mary responded in faith: “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your Word.” Luke 1:35-38
How does this story of an angel visiting a virgin girl named Mary fit with your current world view? Is it comforting or fearful to know that God knows your name, location, family ties, and thoughts? Would you want to know God’s plans for you and your life and offspring?
Prayer: Father God, thank You that You reveal Your knowledge and plans for us in ways we can understand and respond to. Thank You for the faith that Your Word brings to us to yield ourselves to Your will and plans. Have Your way in me today and each day fulfill Your plans in me and through me. Amen.