TENDER SURRENDER
The angel replied, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the Holy One to be born will be called the Son of God. Look, even Elizabeth your relative has conceived a son in her old age, and she who was called barren is in her sixth month. For no word from God will ever fail.” “I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered. “May it happen to me according to your word.” Then the angel left her.
Luke 1:35-38 (BSB)
Mary had been overwhelmed by the appearance of an angel. Her heart must have been pounding in her chest; she could probably hear it in her ears. She was probably filled with awe and wonder and some understandable fears. Would anyone believe her when she said she was pregnant with God’s Son? Would Joseph stand by her side or assume the worst, that she had committed adultery? Would her fiancé have her stoned to death?! Who was she to raise the Son of the Most High? Would the Spirit that overcame her abide with her to guide her in raising God’s child? As the thoughts raced through her mind, Mary became determined to accept this divine assignment and see it through. The angel had told her about Elizabeth’s miracle and assured her that God’s word to her would not fail. She had faith in Adonai (literally, My Lord) and would submit to all He asked of her. She would face the future with courage and grace. She referred to herself as His servant, His handmaiden, His slave. In humility, she surrendered to God’s will for her rather than running away.
Since we trust Jesus as our Savior and Lord, He may call us to unusual tasks. Surrender in humility to Him. Do whatever He asks. You may feel trepidation pounding in your chest, but His Spirit empowers you; for your Father always knows best. As God told Joshua, “Have I not commanded you to be strong and courageous? Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1:9).
Father, give us the courage to humbly surrender to Your will as Mary did so long ago. Help us to be Your handmaidens, but we thank You for elevating us to so much more, to be Your daughters!
Amy Grant singing “Breath of Heaven”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L8_475FKJWQ