God interrupted Mary's plan. She was betrothed (which is more official than our modern day engagement). She was getting ready for the home she and Joseph would make together. The dowery with her father had been discussed.
She would make and gather items for their home. Joseph would get a home ready for them to share. Joseph, most likely, made their furniture or traded with another carpenter. It is typically an exciting season for any young couple... then and now.
Mary asked the angel, “But how can this happen? I am a virgin.” The angel replied, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the baby to be born will be holy, and he will be called the Son of God. What’s more, your relative Elizabeth has become pregnant in her old age! People used to say she was barren, but she has conceived a son and is now in her sixth month. For the word of God will never fail.” Mary responded, “I am the Lord’s servant. May everything you have said about me come true.” And then the angel left her. -Luke 1:34-38
Her pregnancy gave Joseph the right... by the law... to have her stoned for her presumed "infidelity." On the other hand, what was she supposed to do? Tell the angel to tell God "no?" The angel said that she would carry holiness within her womb.
She had only to look in the mirror to see a girl who sought God's face, but she knew she was not perfect. She was not holy. How could she... an ordinary girl... give birth to holiness? Her womb would cradle holy.
The Holy Spirit came upon her. It was not about who she was... it was about who He is.
I love that God gave Mary and Elizabeth overlapping pregnancies. Both were miraculous... only one was holy. They could share the wonder and the wonderful. They could share the stares and discomfort, too.
Today, I am grateful for Mary's "Yes."
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