Scripture: Luke 1:28-28
When the angel came to Mary, he said, “Rejoice, favored one! The Lord is with you!” She was confused by these words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be.
Thought for the Day: Had the angel simply said, “Rejoice…,” I’m guessing Mary would have done as the angel suggested. She would have immediately rejoiced, but instead, we read that she was confused and tried to figure out what was meant by that greeting. When an angel shows up and describes you as “favored,” there is probably a lot buried in that word. It’s like the angel saying, “I’ve got some good news and some not so good news. The good news is that you are favored by God. You are recognized as a special individual. The not so good news is that your favored status comes with some pretty significant expectations.” Mary was reading between the lines, and she was clearly nervous at the thought of having this encounter. She knew this visit brought with it more than a certificate suitable for framing and photo op with the angel. Yet, as we will learn in today’s worship, Mary was willing to accept whatever implications and expectations favored one might have.
Prayer: Lord God, you are with us. You are Emmanuel, and your presence suggests a favorable status in your eyes. You love us and view us as worthy, but with such great blessings come great responsibility. I pray that my spirit and body are ready for the challenge. Amen.
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