Beholding

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 ESV

Gabriel tells Mary that she will give birth to the Son of God. Then, for confirmation, Behold! He tells her of Elizabeth’s miraculous pregnancy. It’s a lot to take in.

Imagine the scene. Angels begin by telling people, “Don’t be afraid.” Their appearance is frightening! But now, God has put such great faith in Mary’s heart that she turns the tables and tells Gabriel “Behold”! Pay attention Gabriel, I am the servant of the Lord. She is ready for the path of social condemnation as an adulteress, rejection by Joseph, and very possibly being stoned. Can you see Gabriel smiling in delight at Mary’s faith, saying, “Wow, I guess I better behold as well!”   

Prayer: Father, behold my next step in being part of your plan to bring your grace into another’s life. Spirit, create ever increasing faith in my heart, to follow Jesus wherever He leads. I long to hear this other say to me, “Behold”, when they come to know your love. In Jesus’ Name. Amen