And the angel answered her, "The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore the Child to be born will be called holy—the Son of God. And behold, your relative Elizabeth in her old age has also conceived a son, and this is the sixth month with her who was called barren. For nothing will be impossible with God." And Mary said, "Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word." And the angel departed from her. (Luke 1:35-38)
It's interesting how Gabriel just volunteers that information about Mary's cousin and her miracle pregnancy. Mary didn't ask God for a sign—but she got one, nevertheless.
She got more than that—she got a pretty strong hint on what her next steps should be. Elizabeth is pregnant? Why, what a great time to visit! As a strong young woman, Mary would be able to help Elizabeth around the house during the difficult last months of pregnancy. She herself would have a safe place to stay as she adjusted to her own miracle—and any morning sickness that might have come with it!
This is the kind of God we have—One who understands the fears and confusion we have, whether we say it or not. He provides for those needs, too, even before we know what to ask for. And that is no surprise, because this is the God who sent us His only Son Jesus to be our Savior—to be Immanuel, "God with us," no matter what we are facing.
THE PRAYER: Father, help me to see how You care for me in my daily life. Amen.
Reflection Questions:
* How do you feel when your life changes in a major way?
* What do you do to cope with worry and confusion?
* Tell a story about how God provided for you when you faced a difficult time.
Advent Devotions were written by Dr. Kari Vo.
Today's Bible Readings: Zechariah 5-8 Jude
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