I wonder what it would have been like to be in Mary’s sandals when the angel came to her with news that she would soon be pregnant and not with just any ordinary baby…Oh no. She would bear the Son of God! How would I have responded to such an impossible proclamation, or how would you?
It is important to remember that Mary was only a girl herself, little more than a child. Of course, in those days, it was not uncommon for young girls, by our standards, to become promised in marriage. Also important to consider is that the betrothal was as binding to them as marriage is to us. And so, when she became pregnant, it was assumed that she had either been unfaithful or the betrothed couple had gotten carried away. To further complicate matters, Joseph knew that this child was not his, which left only one alternative in his mind—until, of course, the angel visited him as well.
Here they were, a young couple who only days or weeks before had become publicly betrothed, enjoying the well-wishes of family and friends along with much celebration. Suddenly, they are thrust into a drama of epic proportions. Not only is there a supposedly illegitimate baby on the way, but unbeknownst to all their friends and family, that baby was the Messiah, the Promised One, the Holy Son of God. How do you wrap your mind around something so seemingly impossible and keep it a secret?
Yet, once they accepted their roles, it appears that neither ever looked back. This was the purpose for which they had been created, and, being faithful followers, they accepted the honor that had been offered them.
Just for a moment, imagine if Mary had said to the angel, “No way, I’m not falling for that story. Immaculate conception! No, you’ll have to find someone else to help you with this crazy plan.” (In today’s world, that kind of reaction would be entirely possible.) Mary’s world, however, was solidly based in tradition, prophecies, and mysteries beyond human understanding. We, educated people of the twenty-first century that we are, might try to rationalize the honor being bestowed through the voice of an angel and find it lacking credibility. Truth be told, many would be terrified. But not Mary. Even if she felt a bit of fear or uncertainty, her faith did not waver.
Or, what if Joseph had followed the acceptable behavior of the day and had Mary stoned for her transgression? That form of punishment was legal and favored in situations like Mary’s. But Joseph had a tender spot in his heart for Mary, and maybe somewhere deep inside himself, he knew that something about this story was special.
Whatever doubts either of them may have felt were put to rest by the words of the angel sent from God. And they went about their days just doing what most expectant parents do until the decree went out regarding a census, one that would lead them on a journey back to the town where Joseph’s family found its roots. And there she birthed the Christ Child with no fanfare, just a humble stable, a few scruffy animals, some smelly shepherds, and a host of angels. The Lord of heaven came to earth in human skin to dwell among us, not ruling over us, but living in the midst of our daily lives. He came to fulfill a plan that was formed before human time began, a plan that would rescue us and provide hope for something precious after this life ends. And then He offered us a choice…to believe or not believe!
Happy is she who believed that the Lord would fulfill the promises he made to her. Luke 1:45 CEB
