Lilac Ministries

Bible Study Lessons

December 9, 2007 God’s Gift to Mary

Scripture: Luke 1:26-38


Have you ever been given a gift or exciting opportunity that had significant responsibility associated with it? There are many examples we can think of - a new pet, being elected to a position, or being asked to help lead a project or event.

Mary’s responsibility was a new baby. This is a BIG responsibility for anyone, but in her case, she was to carry God’s child. If we think about how we feel when someone offers us a blessing with responsibility and adds to it a sincere “because I think you are the best person to receive this,” then we might have a little picture of how Mary felt. Some of the words or thoughts we had in our Bible study were “overwhelmed” and “it feels good” and “nervous” and “there must be some mistake.” I’d imagine that all of those emotions were spinning in Mary’s mind and heart.

The opportunities and responsibilities and gifts God gives us are not always so obvious as an angelic announcement, but with Mary’s simple response, “May it be done to me according to your word,” we find that her trust is not in the human side of the gift, but in God’s word. The honors and lauds of people will, in time, fade or be taken away or be bestowed upon others. The honor of God will ever remain. Jesus said (Matthew 10:42), “And if anyone gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones because he is my disciple, I tell you the truth, he will certainly not lose his reward.”

As we receive gifts this season, let us be sure to thank those who offer them, but remember that such things fade. Let us also keep in mind that God’s gift of love and kindness - something we can give to others, albeit in smaller measure - will be the gift that is eternal.