Today's passage provides insight into Mary's thoughts on miraculous news she received. She, like Zechariah from Wednesday's Daily, responds with a question; but unlike Zechariah, does not receive a punishment for disbelief. This, along with Gabriel's response, would seem to indicate that Mary's question is not one of disbelief, but rather of clarification of what was to happen. Zechariah, who disbelieved and asked for a sign to know what Gabriel was saying was true, receives no sign other than the fulfillment of the prophecy the angel gave. Mary, who asked for no sign, got additional clarification and insight and a sign.

Mary's belief is substantial, and a worthy challenge to us as we read biblical prophecies and learn God's truth. May we, like Mary, receive that truth with faith and seek to know more. May the word of God inspire us to greater depth in our faith, fulfill our quest for truth, and provide us the words to share that truth with others throughout the season of advent and Christmas.

Luke 1.34-38

34 And Mary said to the angel, “How will this be, since I am a virgin?” 35 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. 36 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. 37 For nothing will be impossible with God.” 38 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.

[ WHAT ] is this passage saying and what is a key truth or thought that we learn?

+ What was Mary's response to Gabriel's initial news to her? [v. 34]

+ How did Gabriel respond? [vs. 35-36]

+ What does Gabriel's prophecy tell us about Jesus? [v. 35]

+ What truth about God does Elizabeth's pregnancy indicate? [v. 37]

+ How does Mary respond to this additional miraculous news? [v. 38]

[ HOW ] is the Lord calling me to action/obedience?

+ Is there sin to confess or a next step to take? How has it gone since last time?

+ Are there examples in your life where you have believed miraculous truth from God with faith?

+ Are there areas in your life now where your faith is lacking? What steps can you take to rectify this?

[ WHO ] am I walking with and praying for to discover Jesus?

+ What is my next step?

+ How can you use this season to share the Good News in a fresh way with this person/these people?