Mary received the news of God’s plan for a Savior by accepting and submitting to his Lordship. God’s place on the throne of her life was not in question. She had undoubtedly been preparing for this moment for her entire life. She was well-versed in the Scriptures and knowledgeable regarding the prophecies about the coming Messiah. It’s hard to understand how a young girl who was probably no more than 14 or 15 years of age so boldly declared her devotion knowing at least in part, the hardship and danger that would follow. She was ready to step into God’s plan for her life because she was fully submitted, totally devoted, unquestionably trusting in God as King of her life.

Scriptures
Lk 1:30-33, 38, 46-55; 2:10-14, 16-20

Verse
Then Mary said, “Here am I, the servant of the Lord; let it be with me according to your word.” (Lk 1:38) “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has looked with favor on the lowliness of his servant. Surely, from now on all generations will call me blessed; for the Mighty One has done great things for me and holy is his name. (Lk 1:46-49)

Thought
In Mary’s prayer/song the Magnificat she expresses the honor and amazement she feels because God has looked upon her with favor and chosen her to be his servant. We too should be amazed and honored that God has chosen us to be his servants. He sent his son to die for our sins so that we could be children of the most High God! Nothing less than complete submission and total devotion is worthy of the great privilege he has offered us. We should live life with both humble awe and great privilege. We have been chosen. May we say, “Here am I, the servant of the Lord; let it be with me according to your word.” (Lk 1:38)

Questions
Do you think of following Christ as a gift and a privilege or a burden and responsibility? What does your life magnify? Is it money, success, looks, things? Or is it God? How quickly do you respond when God asks you to do something? Do you know when God is asking you to do something? Do you wish Gabriel would show up and bring you the news so you could be for sure it’s God who is talking to you?

Response
Take a look into your heart and be honest about God’s place. Ask him to take the throne? Ask him to tear down the other thrones that are preventing him for being Lord of all!

Prayer
Only you, O Lord my God, are worthy to receive glory and honor and power and majesty! Thank you for choosing me to be your servant. May I live each day as a privileged child of the King! Privileged to know you, Lord. Privileged to serve you. Privileged to do your will. Reign in my heart and life. I pray in Jesus name, Amen.