Surprise

Read

Luke 1:46-48 “And Mary said: ‘My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant. From now on all generations will call me blessed.’”

Luke 1:38 “’I am the Lord’s servant,’ Mary answered. ‘May your word to me be fulfilled.’ Then the angel left her.”

Think

God's design for Mary dramatically altered the course of her life. When we contemplate Mary, the mother of Jesus, it's easy to assume she possessed immense faith simply because of her pivotal role. Yet, it's crucial to remember that prior to being the mother of Jesus, she was an unassuming teenage girl, likely preoccupied with thoughts of her fiancé and the plans for her wedding. Just like us, she had to choose to submit to God’s plan.

Each morning, Mary faced choices—whether to embrace God's path or turn away, to serve within her family and community or prioritize her own desires. This ordinary teenager transitioned into the extraordinary when an angel stood before her, delivering the profound message, "Nothing is impossible with God" (Luke 1:37). This proclamation gave her the assurance she needed for this moment.

Despite her apprehension, Mary courageously embraced faith. Those seemingly mundane, everyday decisions became her training ground, shaping her for the remarkable plan God had in store. Her steadfastness in ordinary moments was her preparation for her eventual monumental leaps of faith.

Mary's story reminds us that greatness often emerges from faithful commitment to the small, routine choices, paving the way for God's extraordinary purposes. She surrendered her plans to become part of a greater plan for all mankind, and she was willing to sacrifice in order to follow God. But she understood the goodness of God and the calling of God was greater than the comfort of what was known.

Apply

Recognize the significance of your choices. Every decision, no matter how small, contributes to your spiritual growth and preparedness for God's plan. Cultivate consistency in making choices that reflect alignment with God's principles and teachings. View your daily life as a training ground for God's extraordinary purposes.

Make a commitment today to be consistent with your Bible reading and church attendance. If you don’t serve, sign up today! You can be a difference-maker.

Pray

Father, help me to surrender my plans and comforts, just as Mary did, in order to be part of your scheme for mankind. May I find joy in the sacrifice of my desires for the fulfillment of your greater purpose. Lord, guide me in knowing your will in every aspect of my life. In Jesus’ name. Amen.