The Annunciation or Mary’s Faithful Yes

Our Christmas series continues with another look at Mary, the mother of Jesus. Before we dig in, let’s clarify a few things. Lately, social media has buzzed with claims that Mary was a young, naive girl with no say in God’s plan. Some even argue that the story of Mary and the Annunciation portrays God as imposing His will on her, suggesting she was too young to understand what was happening. Let’s set the record straight.

First, Mary wasn’t a child. Many claim she was only about 12 or 13 years old, but that’s not accurate. In Jewish culture at the time, girls were often betrothed at that age but typically married closer to 16 or 18. Mary was most likely in her late teens—old enough to grasp the significance of what was happening. She wasn’t coerced. When the angel Gabriel appeared, God didn’t force His will on her. Instead, He invited her into His plan, and Mary willingly and faithfully said yes during the Annunciation.

A Unique Moment, Gabriel’s Announcement to Mary

Now, let’s examine the moment that changed everything—Gabriel’s announcement to Mary. This wasn’t the first time God sent an angel to announce a miraculous birth. Divine messengers announced the births of Isaac, Samson, and John the Baptist. However, this moment was different. Those announcements were made to married women longing for children. Mary, however, was a virgin, and that fact set this event apart. The Annunciation held immense significance.

When Gabriel greeted Mary with, “You who are highly favoured! The Lord is with you,” Mary couldn’t have anticipated what was coming (Luke 1:28). Imagine her thoughts when Gabriel delivered the news about the Annunciation:

“You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus” (Luke 1:31).

Mary’s heart must have raced, her mind reaching for understanding.

“How will this be,” she asked, “since I am a virgin?” (Luke 1:34).

Mary wasn’t doubting God’s power but genuinely asking, “How is this possible?” A virgin conceiving through the Holy Spirit was unprecedented. Despite her uncertainty, Mary didn’t resist or flee. Her response reflected deep faith and humility:

“I am the Lord’s servant. May your word to me be fulfilled” (Luke 1:38).

The Annunciation was a Costly Yes

Mary’s yes to God’s plan during the Annunciation came with great personal cost. She knew what lay ahead. Betrothed to Joseph, she faced becoming pregnant before the wedding—a situation her culture viewed as scandalous and potentially life-threatening. Under Jewish law, adultery could result in death by stoning. Even if she escaped that fate, she would endure shame, gossip, and rejection.

Still, Mary said yes. Her faith wasn’t blind. She could imagine the cost, even if she couldn’t foresee how God’s plan would unfold. Her trust in God outweighed her fear. Imagine the courage required for a young woman with her whole life ahead of her to embrace a future marked by misunderstanding and hardship—all because she trusted God’s promise more than her circumstances.

God’s Plan for Humanity Rested on Mary Saying Yes

Gabriel’s announcement during the Annunciation wasn’t just about a baby; it revealed the arrival of the long-awaited Messiah. He told Mary her son would be called the “Son of the Most High” and that His kingdom would never end (Luke 1:32-33). This was no ordinary child but the promised Deliverer, the Saviour of the world.

God’s plan wasn’t just for Mary; it was for all of humanity. Through Jesus, God would take on human flesh, live among us, and redeem us. Mary’s yes at the Annunciation marked the beginning of this plan coming to life. She became the vessel through which the Saviour entered the world.

The Only Yes That Matters

Mary’s faith challenges us. When God invites us into His plan, He doesn’t promise ease or immediate clarity. Instead, He asks for trust, just as Mary demonstrated. Her yes at the Annunciation changed history, reminding us that when we say yes to God—regardless of the cost—He can work through us in ways we can’t imagine.

As we continue this Christmas season, let’s reflect on Mary’s faithful yes at the Annunciation. Obeying God’s plan may bring challenges, but it also fulfils His greater purpose for our lives. Mary didn’t know how everything would unfold, but she trusted the One who did. That’s all God asks of us.

Go well, my friend.

PS. This is a brilliant arrangement of Mary Did You Know.

PPS. To discover the Gospel in the OT click here.

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