Decision time for Mary - Taimi mo le filifiliga a Maria

Scripture Focus: Luka 1:26-38

And in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God unto a city of Galilee, named Nazareth, To a virgin espoused to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin’s name was Mary. And the angel came in unto her, and said, Hail, thou that art highly favoured, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women. And when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and cast in her mind what manner of salutation this should be. And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God. And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name JESUS. He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David: And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end. Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a man? And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God. And, behold, thy cousin Elisabeth, she hath also conceived a son in her old age: and this is the sixth month with her, who was called barren. For with God nothing shall be impossible. And Mary said, Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word. And the angel departed from her.
- Luke 1:26-38 (KJV)

Study:

This passage reveals a critical moment in salvation history: God's announcement to Mary through the angel Gabriel that she would conceive Jesus, the promised Messiah. Mary, a young virgin from Nazareth, faces a life-changing decision upon hearing this message. Despite the initial fear and confusion, Mary listens carefully and responds in faith and surrender. Her question, "How shall this be, seeing I know not a man?" opens the way for the angel's explanation of the Holy Spirit's power in the miraculous conception. This narrative emphasizes God's initiative in coming to humanity, His use of unexpected people to fulfill His promises, and the courage required to accept God’s call. Mary’s submission, "Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word," models obedience and trust in God’s plan, demonstrating that with God, all things are possible.

Application:

Mary’s decision time invites us today to consider how we respond when God calls us into new and challenging circumstances. Like Mary, we might be uncertain or fearful about what God is asking. This passage encourages us to yield to God’s plan with faith and openness, trusting in His power rather than our limitations. It reminds us that God chooses ordinary people for extraordinary purposes and that nothing is impossible with Him. When we face life’s pivotal moments or decisions, may we, like Mary, respond with trust and a willing heart. Her example challenges us to embrace God’s calling and to move forward in obedience, knowing that God’s presence and power will sustain us.

Reflection Questions:

• How do I respond when God calls me to step out of my comfort zone?
• What fears or doubts do I need to bring before God in prayer?
• How can Mary’s example of obedience inspire my own faith journey?
• In what ways can I recognize and embrace God’s work in unexpected circumstances?
• Do I trust that with God, nothing is impossible in my life?

Prayer:

Lord, thank You for Your faithfulness and the example of Mary’s willing heart. Help me to trust Your plan even when I don’t fully understand it. Give me courage to say, "Behold the handmaid of the Lord," and to follow where You lead with faith. May Your Holy Spirit empower me to live in obedience and hope. Amen.

Tags: Mary, angel Gabriel, Luke 1:26-38, The hope of Israel, faith, obedience, trust in God, inspiration from Mary, God’s promises, Christian daily devotional, Bible study, God’s call, miracles, Holy Spirit