Luke 1:28-29 (NIV), “The angel went to Mary saying, ‘Greetings you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.’ Mary was greatly troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be.” The angel encourages Mary to not be afraid and tells her good news that she will bare a son, Jesus. Mary was confused and had a few questions, but then she says yes to this great honor.
I played Mary in a middle school play and like many others, I am drawn to the story of Mary. I love her response to the angel. First, she was scared. We can all relate. Second, when informed of her assignment, she had a few questions, and willingly accepted. She could have said no. She could have said ‘why me?’ or complained that she could not do the task or say she had other plans. But she said yes. She was a simple girl who said yes to God’s plan for her life.
Daughters of God, we are often like Mary. We are scared of the change but full of potential and eager to please our Heavenly Father. Yes, any new challenge can be scary. Change can be intimidating, but that does not mean we should not move forward. It’s not a sin to be afraid. That is a natural response, but do not let fear stop you from your purpose. If you are afraid, do as Joyce Meyers says, “Do it afraid.” It being whatever the task you have been called to do.
Who are you? You are a child of God. This does not make you immune to fear. Even Mary was afraid. You are amazing! And God has great plans for you! “He will never leave you or forsake you”- Deut. 31:6.
Who are you? Are you scared? These are questions I hear myself and others ask as I take this path in training for living overseas.
God equips us all with gifts unique to our spirit and shapes our character during the high and lows of our lives. Who am I? – I am a child of God. Am I scared? – I am nervous and maybe sometimes scared, but overall I am excited and at peace with my future and where God leads me.
It’s our job to pray, follow, obey. God guides us every step of the way.
Who will you choose to be? Will you be like Mary? Will you surrender and say yes to His assignment on your life? Will you face the new challenge God has for you? He is patiently, lovingly waiting for your answer.
God is with you every step of the way.
