Luke 1:46-55 “My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant. From now on all generations will call me blessed, for the Mighty One has done great things for me - holy is his name. His mercy extends to those who fear him, from generation to generation. He has performed mighty deeds with his arm; he has scattered those who are proud in their inmost thoughts. He has brought down rulers from their thrones but has lifted up the humble. He has filled the hungry with good things but has sent the rich away empty. He has helped his servant Israel, remembering to be merciful to Abraham and his descendants forever, just as he promised our ancestors.”

Mary, the mother of Jesus, faced an overwhelming challenge. God sent an angel to her to inform her that she, a virgin, would give birth to Jesus. This challenge could have destroyed her reputation and future, and yet, before she even knew the outcome of her situation, she chose to worship God (see Luke 1:46-55).

It’s ironic, how we all secretly long for adventure – a challenge – and yet, when God gives us just that, we cringe, and long to go back to the way things were. Sometimes we are afraid of the unknown, never realizing that what He is allowing us to go through is leading us to the greater plans and purpose He has in store for us.

It would have been so much easier for Mary to worry, rather than worship, but because she placed her trust in God and yielded herself to the plan God had for her, she ended up being one of the most amazing vessels that God ever used. Worship or worry? What will you do? Imagine what God would do through you if you yield yourself to the challenges He places before you. sr

Additional Verses for Study: Joshua 1:9; Psalm 34:1-5; Proverbs 3:5-6; Isaiah 6:8; Jeremiah 29:11; Daniel 11:32b; Mark 14:36; Romans 8:31; Philippians 4:6; 2 Timothy 1:7