Readings:   Luke 1:26-38 and Psalm 85

You’ll notice the same Gospel reading for the next few days…

read the section and we’ll talk about a smaller set of verses from the text.

I am so glad that Luke lets us in on the reality that Mary was troubled… perplexed… frightened.

Had it been me then words like unglued or comatose would have likely been better.

It’s clear that Mary knows something dramatic is coming. It’s not everyday that an angel shows up… something was definitely up.

What she didn’t know quite yet was that the baby that was about the be conceived in her womb

would be the answer to the cry and yearning of much of the Old Testament.

Here’s some of what was about to take place (Psalm 85)… God was showing His favor and about to restore the fortunes of Jacob. He planned on forgiving the iniquity of His people and covering all their sins. He was about to set aside all His wrath turn from His fierce anger. He promised to show His unfailing love and grant His salvation. As well, He promises peace to His people and that His glory will dwell in the land. Love and faithfulness will meet together and righteousness and peace will kiss each other.

What we catch as we read the story is that slowly the reality of the plan is settling in with Mary.

What she doesn’t get here she soon will grasp… as as more of the story unfolds, more of God’s plan become clear.

Take some time today to let the story sink in. Re-read Psalm 85 and let the fantastic reality soak into your soul…

this is what God has done…

this is the work that was accomplished.