SATURDAY 10 December, 2016
An Angelic Announcement
Now in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. And having come in, the angel said to her, “Rejoice, highly favored one, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among women!” - Luke 1:26-28
Gabriel, during the six month of Elizabeth’s pregnancy, was sent by God to give another incredible message. This time, the angel went into a city in Galilee, Nazareth, to a young virgin, Mary. She was engaged to be married to Joseph and must have been surprised, even shocked to be approached by an angel with such an amazing salutation!
The angel reassured her that in God’s sight she was highly favored; His holy presence was with her. Mary was blessed among women––the good news soon to be told to her, would make her rejoice. But how would she be blessed? God had a plan for her life––more than she could ever imagine.
Even though, at this time, Mary did not fully understand the reason for the angel’s visit. Her encounter with the angel was in accordance with the prophecies recorded in the Old Testament Scriptures. She was a human vessel, chosen among all the women on earth, to perfectly fit into God’s plan. Everything was about to fall into place, she would soon understand.
Most Christians do not have encounters with angels; our life changing experiences are purely based on God’s Word. He transforms our lives (2 Corinthians 5:17), and then begins to use us to do His will on earth. God, in His wisdom, often does not show us His entire plan for our lives––He takes us on a journey of faith one step at a time. Even if we do not understand the path God is leading us on, we must simply trust in Him.
Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him,
and He shall direct your paths.
~Proverbs 3:5-6~
For more from Raul Ries, please visit Somebodylovesyouradio.org!