Carrying the Promise

It’s December! What I love about this time of year is everyone’s joint focus on words like hope, peace, and of course the beautiful nativity. When we think of the Christmas story, we often jump to the inn, the manger, and the starry night when Jesus was born. However, let's pause for a moment and focus on the remarkable journey of Mary in Luke 1. Mary, the young woman chosen to carry the promise of Jesus, offers us more than just a backdrop for the Nativity scene; she brings a story of hope, faith, and divine purpose that resonates not only during Christmas but in each one of us as we also are carrying a promise from God.

Imagine being Mary, just a teenager in the town of Nazareth, going about her daily life, probably dreaming about her future with Joseph. We currently live in a house with three teenagers. Teenagers are teenagerish.. they are focused on what is going on in their own little world. I could be wrong, but I would guess this was the same even in the ancient world. One day, Mary’s world is turned upside down by an unexpected visit from the angel Gabriel. He came with a monumental announcement—Mary would conceive a child through the Holy Spirit, and this child would be called Jesus. Imagine the shock, wonder, and maybe even fear as she processed this incredible news!

In Luke 1:30-32, Gabriel reassures her, saying, “Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favor with God.” This moment marks the beginning of a journey that will not only change Mary’s life but will also fulfill a promise that God made to humanity. Mary didn’t seem to be asking God to show her His plan, in fact, she was in the middle of an exciting engagement in her own life. Yet, God often enters our lives unexpectedly. He brings promises that can feel daunting and overwhelming, yet they serve a purpose far beyond what we can see.

Mary’s response to the angel is both simple and profound: “I am the Lord’s servant. May your word to me be fulfilled” (Luke 1:38). In just a few words, she expresses complete trust and obedience to God’s plan. Here’s a young woman, aware of the societal implications of her situation—being an unwed mother in her time was no small stroke of fate. She could have easily had doubts, and fears, or chosen to resist the divine call. Instead, she steps forward with courage.

Isn’t that a powerful reminder for us? Life can throw unexpected challenges our way, and often they come with uncertainties. When we feel like our plans are disrupted, how do we respond? Mary teaches us that faith doesn’t require having all the answers; it simply requires a willing heart. When we choose to trust in a greater plan, we open the door to incredible possibilities.

Following the angel’s visit, Mary realizes this new news is too big and maybe too heavy to carry on her own. She immediately goes on a journey to visit her cousin Elizabeth, who is also miraculously pregnant. This is not just a physical journey; it’s a spiritual and emotional one, filled with the hope of shared experiences. As she travels, it’s heartwarming to think about the camaraderie that begins to build between these two women, both of whom are carrying promises from God.

When Mary arrives and greets Elizabeth, something beautiful happens: Elizabeth’s baby leaps into her womb, and Elizabeth, filled with the Holy Spirit, recognizes the significance of Mary’s pregnancy. “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear!” (Luke 1:42).

This moment is powerful and uplifting. It reminds us of the importance of community as we walk through significant seasons of our lives. Just like Mary and Elizabeth, we need people who can celebrate our victories and validate our struggles. Having someone to share our burdens with can deepen our faith and uplift our spirits. When God gives you a promise to carry, He will surround you with the right people. Cling to them, and blocking out those whose negativity can make your promise feel like a burden rather than a blessing! Mary’s visit with Elizabeth was so inspiring that it compelled Mary into such joy that she began to sing what we know as, The Magnificat—Mary’s song of praise. This song is found in Luke 1:46-55. It’s a beautiful expression of praise and gratitude to God, filled with profound theological truths. Mary’s song highlights not only her personal joy but also God’s character and His promises to the proud, the humble, and the hungry. In her song, she says, “My soul glorifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior.” This declaration of worship is significant. It shows that amid uncertainty and potential scorn, Mary’s focus is on the goodness of God. She recognizes that the promise she carries is part of God’s bigger narrative—a story of redemption and hope for the entire world. Mary’s Magnificat encourages us to celebrate our own lives with gratitude and recognize the blessings—even when they come disguised amongst challenges. Finding our voice in worship, whether through song or expression, can be a powerful way to affirm our faith and magnify God above our obstacles.

As Mary carries Jesus, she embodies the promise of love, hope, and salvation. She embraces the enormity of her role with grace, nurturing the potential of what is to come. Carrying Jesus is not merely a physical act; it’s about being open to God’s will and fostering faith in the unseen. Every one of us is carrying something. Perhaps it’s a dream, a challenge, or a promise of our own. Like Mary, we may be overwhelmed with how it can happen. But do as Mary did and trust God above any doubts, fears, or discouragements. Just as Mary was overshadowed by the Spirit of God, so are you. As you do your part to carry the promise, God will do His. Just like Mary, we are just blessed to be a part of His beautiful plan!

joie miller