The first recorded words of Mary were spoken to the angel Gabriel when he announced God’s plan for her life. She would give birth to the Christ, Jesus the Son of God. She was so young (a teenager in our language); how could she begin to understand all that God’s plan would mean to her and the world? Her first words were a question: “How can this be since I am a virgin?” It wasn’t a question of doubt, but of amazement at what God can do.

“How can it be?” is an important Advent question for all of us. How can it be that God would love us, forgive us, use us? Mary’s next words were A GREAT AFFIRMATION OF A SIMPLE FAITH: “Be it done unto me according to your word.” Do we dare to believe that with God nothing will be impossible? Have we the courage of faith to say, “Have your own way Lord?”

Sure, we have probably said, and meant it: “Lord, have your way with my life,” but I have a feeling it’s different when Gabriel is staring at you and waiting on an answer.

In a short thirty-three years later, Mary’s Son would speak words that were similar to the ones she said to Gabriel. In a garden of prayer He said, “Not my will, but Thine be done.” Then He went to Calvary’s cross and brought salvation to all who believe.

What would have happened if Mary had said no to the Lord’s plan? We can thank God for eternity that Jesus did not refuse Gethsemane’s cup. They both said “yes” to God, and we are saved.

We all have an opportunity to say “Yes” or “No” to the Lord. Be ready for those moments when God says “I have a plan for you.” It may be a work for the rest of your life on earth; or it may be a task for today. Can we say, “Your will be done,” to the unimaginable plan of God?

“Mary said yes, yes, yes,
My Lord your way is best.”