December 4, 2024 - The Annunciation

 The Annunciation

Wednesday, December 4, 2024

by:  Barbara Alsup

Scripture: Luke 1:26-38

Key Verse: “Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you."

Luke 1:28

The announcement of the prospect of a new baby in the family, whether heralded by the sound of a trumpet or by the quiet whispers from the members of the family, brings forth many different emotions in response to the news.

Planning for this child's future can be a very joyous occasion with so much excitement and anticipation to ensure he has everything he needs to be healthy and happy.  Many parents feel such a sense of responsibility for the well-being of the child entrusted to their care.  This feeling of responsibility can also lead to worry and anxiety in helping to formulate dreams and plans for his future.  The love that surrounds a new baby helps to alleviate some of the fears and gives reassurance all will be well.

The Catholic Creative

When God sent the angel, Gabriel, to Nazareth to visit the young girl, Mary, she probably had some of the same emotions as young mothers do today.  She was greatly  troubled when the angel told her she was going to  have a child.  She knew this could cause a lot of problems as she was unmarried and still a virgin.  Mary also had to be concerned about her relationship with Joseph to whom she was engaged.  Many thoughts probably raced through her mind in the short time Gabriel was speaking to her.  Will my family accept or reject my baby?  Will I be able to provide for this child?

To make things even more complicated, Gabriel told Mary she would name her son Jesus, and he would be great and would be called the Son of the Most High.  He would reign over the house of Jacob forever.  His kingdom would never end.  This young girl must have been totally amazed with these words!  She may have been wondering how she could raise a king!

Gabriel reassured Mary by telling her she had found favor with God.  He also tried to reassure her by informing her about her relative, Elizabeth, who had been barren for many years, was six months pregnant.  Mary's obedience to God demonstrated her great love and trust of the Most High.  

God's amazing plan for mankind shows his great love for each of  us!  We have to accept His love and show it to others.  Mary showed us what this love and total trust looks like.

[Editors Note:  Normally I would hold off on "Silent Night" until Christmas Eve, however when asked Barbara was quick to say this was her favorite.  So because it is Barbara, it was decided to add this song now.  There are several wonderful versions of Silent Night, so I am sure another version will be available closer to December 24th.]

Dear Heavenly Father, 

Thank You giving me the best gift of all: salvation through your Son Jesus Christ. May this precious gift always be a reminder to me that you are an on time God and that You are worth waiting for and trusting. May my heart be filled with anticipation and joy as I rest in the truth that You know what is best for me and also when it is best for me. Lord, thank You for loving me and giving me good gifts. I love You. In Jesus Christ Name I pray, 

Amen.

This prayer originally appeared on iBelieve.com.