I think we overlook Mary's role in the Christmas story. Yes, we know an angel came to tell her she would bring the Son of God into the world, and we know of her trip to Bethlehem and how she was forced to give birth in a stable, but do we really put any thought into what all of this meant to her?
Yes, she had found favor with God, but what about with the people that knew her? She was a young, unmarried teenager and now she would be pregnant. This was a culture that could still stone girls for this kind of thing. The best she could hope for was basically exile from all of her loved ones. This young girl would be signing up for a very difficult journey, not just physically, but emotionally and spiritually as well. Knowing the dangers that lay ahead of her, she responded, "I am the Lord's servant, may your word to me be fulfilled." (Luke 1:38)
This teenage girl may not have understood all that was being asked of her, but she knew that it was God asking it of her, and that was enough for her. Yes, she knew the road ahead of her would be tough, but she knew it was ordained by God. If it was ordained by God, it would be worth the journey.
I think we need to remember the courage of that young woman. When God asked her to do something, she didn't stop to count the cost. No, she simply said, "Okay, I am yours." As you celebrate the birth of the Savior, remember the faith of a young girl that made it all possible.
This video is "Be Born in Me" by Francesca Battistelli
