Obedient Mary

Developing a character of strength and faithfulness

"For nothing is impossible with God" (Luke 1:37).

I am an Arizona native, so I can say that I am somewhat used to the heat. However, when the end of August comes around, I always daydream about the fall and winter months. I have been thinking of winter quite often as I have been working on my next monologue, "The Birth of Jesus: Mary's Testimony." This piece is like a window into a woman's heart. Mary shares her journey about becoming a mother. Some of the key traits that Mary is known for include her obedience, strength, and faithfulness.

Obedience - Mary was surprised by an angel who told her she would be with child and give birth to a Savior. Since she did not know a man, Mary was confused by this news. However, she knew this was God's plan and she wanted to obey Him. Mary answered, "I am the LORD's servant. May it be to me as you have said" (Luke 1:38). Mary's world was drastically changed, yet she was obedient and knew that God had a plan for her.

Strength- Mary showed strength amidst her circumstances that were not ideal at the time. She had to tell Joseph that she was going to have a child when they were not married yet. Joseph still stood by her side, and became her husband. Mary stayed strong when she had to give birth in a stable. "She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room left in the inn" (Luke 2:7). She must have been so disappointed when she couldn't stay in the inn. She used her strength in God to submit to His plan despite her lowly surroundings.

Faithfulness - Mary is faithful to God even through her feelings of surprise and confusion.

She wondered why she was so favored by the LORD, and was given this special calling from God. Mary's faith could have been wavered as her world was suddenly turned upside down. Rather, she remained faithful to God and carried out her purpose that He prepared for her to accomplish. Mary expresses her thankfulness to God by proclaiming, "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, generations will call me blessed, for the Mighty One has done great things for me. Holy is His name" (Luke 1:46-49).

Have you had an experience that changed your life in a drastic way? As we endure so many changes in the world right now, it is important that we sustain our faithfulness to God. It is easy to love God when everything is going right in our lives. However, when things are difficult, it is more challenging to stay strong in our faith. God yearns for us to lean on Him during the hard times too. May you feel God's goodness, be filled with his strength, and given favor for your faithfulness to Him.