Suppose God were going to do something wonderful and in His search for a vessel He came upon — you. Suppose He asked you to lay your plans aside and submit to His will. What if His will didn’t include your comfort but predicted discomfort? You would be mocked as an adulterer and you would have to stand by as your beloved son – was crucified. Suppose He came to you and asked you to put aside your plans for the “perfect” family in exchange for His glory and His honor?

It seems like a poor deal, unless you believe this God to be THE God and His plans to be “plans to prosper, not to harm, plans to give hope and a future.” Sarah laughed, Zechariah doubted…but Mary believed. I am at once out-paced by her faith and humbled by her obedience.

Mary received the angel’s pronouncement with a few simple words, “I am the Lord’s servant.” She was, yet this young girl was not being promised fame without cost. A sword would indeed pierce her heart. As it is, we are not used to acting for the glory or benefit of another. Selflessness is far from natural, while selfishness is More >