…the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. And the virgin's name was Mary. And he came to her and said, "Greetings, O favored one, the Lord is with you!” But she was greatly troubled at the saying, and tried to discern what sort of greeting this might be. And the angel said to her, "Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. Luke 1:26-30God chose Mary specifically. She was not a random recipient of circumstance. God dispatched a messenger, the angel Gabriel to bring her the good news; you have been favored by God for a great assignment! Mary was right to be troubled. It isn’t everyday that God has a special assignment for us… or is it?
Mary knew that she had been singled out. For a purpose. And that purpose was established in eternity, determined even before her existence. That purpose existed in and for God’s favor. How would we feel to know that God has chosen us specifically for a specific purpose? That we have received His favor? Mary’s life would never be the same again. Her plans would become secondary to whatever God had planned for her. In that one moment, that one greeting from the angel Gabriel, Mary would be changed forever.
How do we receive God’s favor? With enthusiasm? With complacency? With conditions? Or with fear and trembling? God’s favor usurps plans, upsets the status quo, and changes lives. God has a special assignment for each of us, we just need to have the eyes, ears, and heart to see and hear the messengers He has put in our lives to show us His plan for today. Don’t be afraid, for you have found favor with God!
Dear Lord, open my eyes to see the people and circumstances you have brought into my life so that I will be able to fulfill my purpose for today. Help me to remember that I do not need to be afraid to step out and do the work you have for me to do, because I have found Your favor, and I have been chosen by You. Amen
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