In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a town in Galilee called Nazareth, to a virgin engaged to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. And he came to her and said, “Greetings, favored one! The Lord is with you.” But she was much perplexed by his words and pondered what sort of greeting this might be. Luke 1:26-29 (New Revised Standard Version Updated Edition)

I can’t help but notice that the angel Gabriel was sent by God. The angel did not bring this message of his own accord. This message was delivered through the voice of the angel Gabriel, but it was God’s message to Mary. When have you received a message from God and who brought the message to you? Does God’s voice sometimes sound like a pastor’s voice, or a teacher’s voice, or a parent’s voice, or a friend’s voice, or maybe even your voice? How has God spoken to you throughout your life? When Mary received God’s message, she was perplexed and then began to ponder this greeting. Did she sense that her life was about to change? Did she realize the new beginning God had in store for her? What a comfort it must have been for Mary to hear the assurance of God’s presence. That same assurance is still true today each time we receive a message from God today – “The Lord is with you.” In this ever-changing world of new beginnings, there is no better place to be than in God’s presence.

Prayer: O God, let me sink myself into your presence as I navigate life today.
Wondering While Waiting: What is a new beginning you’ve seen God creating in your life lately?

Nancy – Leadership Team: Inspire. Ignite. Invite.
Indianapolis, IN