Discovering the Promise of the Birth of Jesus: The Angel’s Message to Mary

Christmas: the season of joy, peace, and celebration. But let’s be honest—does that joy and peace reach everyone when the Christmas rush begins?

Already, we see the prelude to Black Friday sales everywhere, tempting us with bargains and deals. But the Christmas story in Luke offers a very different kind of excitement—the true promise of the birth of Christ.

Before you get swept up in the holiday frenzy, take a moment to pause and remember why we celebrate Christmas. It’s all about Christ—God with us, Emmanuel—who came to live among us as a human.

The Angel’s Promise to Mary: Announcing the Birth of Jesus

“Now in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a city in Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the descendants of David; and the virgin’s name was Mary.

And coming in, he said to her, “Greetings, favored one! The Lord is with you.”

But she was very perplexed at this statement, and was pondering what kind of greeting this was.

And the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God.

And behold, you will conceive in your womb and give birth to a son, and you shall name Him Jesus.

He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David;

and He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and His kingdom will have no end.”

But Mary said to the angel, “How will this be, since I am a virgin?”

The angel answered and said to her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you;

for that reason also the holy Child will be called the Son of God.

And behold, even your relative Elizabeth herself has conceived a son in her old age, and she who was called infertile is now in her sixth month.

For nothing will be impossible with God.”

And Mary said, “Behold, the Lord’s bond-servant; may it be done to me according to your word.”

And the angel departed from her.”
— Luke 1:26-38

Why Did God Choose Mary?

God could have chosen anyone to be the mother of His Son, but He chose Mary. Why? While we might not know every reason until heaven, one thing is clear: Mary’s faithfulness and willingness to obey God played a huge role.

Throughout the Bible, God doesn’t pick people based on their education, wealth, looks, or social status. In fact, often it’s the opposite! Think about the 12 disciples—ordinary fishermen, tradesmen, and even a despised tax collector. If God can use them, He can certainly use you.

God calls anyone willing to serve. It might not mean standing on a big stage; it could be as simple as helping a neighbor with a spiritual question or sharing kindness. We are all called, but sometimes we hesitate to answer.

Who Was Mary Really?

Mary wasn’t rich or famous. She was a young, poor woman engaged to Joseph, who himself was not wealthy. Many in her day might have seen her as unworthy to be part of God’s plans since such divine things were often associated with priests or the religious elite.

Feeling Unqualified? You’re Not Alone!

Have you ever felt unqualified to serve God? Maybe you think you lack the skills, knowledge, or experience. I’ve felt that way too. I’m not a pastor, and I didn’t grow up in church. It took friends to help me find God again as an adult.

But here’s the truth: God provides what we need when we need it. He will help you fulfill the task He’s given you, no matter how big or small.

Don’t Limit God’s Power

Sometimes when God calls us to something that feels too big, we’re really saying, “This is too big for God.” But God’s power is limitless. He has done the impossible time and again—calling ordinary people like Moses, David, John the Baptist, and Paul to change the world.

Don’t put limits on what God can do through you. Mary trusted God—and look at the miracle He brought to life through her!

If you want to dive deeper into the children’s Christmas story about the Three Kings, or have questions about the New Testament, check out this helpful post. You might also enjoy reading about Mary’s visit to Elizabeth, a beautiful part of the Christmas story in Luke.

To explore more encouraging and inspiring biblical stories, visit the Making Christ Known blog.

Love in Christ,
– Bob

If you have never made the decision to receive the love and life-changing experience of Jesus Christ, please take a moment to read John 3:16 for more information.