To Be the Chosen Mother

Mary was a young woman when the angel came to tell her she would be the favored one to birth the Messiah; the One women had hoped to birth for many years. Shaking, Mary wondered how this could happen because she had never been with a man. Sure, she was engaged to Joseph, but they weren’t married yet.

How could she have a baby without a husband? Mary accepted the responsibility in faith, trusting her Lord and the angel’s explanation.

I’m sure her parents were disappointed when they were told she was pregnant. It reflected badly on them too. But Mary didn’t let the shame, embarrassment, and rejection that would come her way during her pregnancy keep her from being faithful to her Lord. Understandably, it was a struggle for Joseph to accept her being pregnant when he knew it wasn’t his doing! Talk about confusing! His faithfulness shows in his accepting what the angel told him and immediately acting on the angel’s directions. God knew this couple would be the best parents to raise His Son.

I’m sure they prayed daily for God’s guidance to prepare them for such a responsibility. As Mary taught Jesus each day, the angel’s words were at the back of her mind, causing her to feel the importance of “getting it right.” I know as a young mother, I would worry about making the wrong decision with my boys, but praise the Lord, He promises to always be our Helper, giving us the wisdom and discernment needed to make wise choices. Mary’s love for Jesus grew stronger each year, so when He was mocked, rejected, and finally killed, her pain and loss were deep. She, too, felt His pain.

She tried to understand the deep love that made Him willing to give up His young life. She stood at the foot of the cross, faithful in her love and commitment.

Despite His incredible pain, Jesus honors His mother and makes provision for her continued care. God does the same today, loving, guiding, and honoring moms as they faithfully serve Him.

Louise Driver