“In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. And the virgin’s name was Mary. And he came to her and said, “Greetings, O favored one, the Lord is with you!” But she was greatly troubled at the saying, and tried to discern what sort of greeting this might be.”

‭‭Luke‬ ‭1:26-29‬ ‭ESV‬‬

http://bible.com/59/luk.1.26-29.esv

The angel appears to Mary and all -of-a-sudden her life is changed. Just like that, Mary’s plans are out of the window and her life is dramatically and drastically changed forever. It’s no wonder the passage tells us that she was greatly troubled by what she was being told. Her dreams of a “normal” life have just been revoked. Consider the ramifications of this one event for her: all her life she had kept pure but now she would be questioned about her purity and faithfulness. Her reputation and that of the baby would be suspect.

Mary’s story vividly depicts the kind of story many of us have once we enter into a relationship with God. He moves in and takes over and all the plans we had for life are seemingly turned upside down. Many times life doesn’t go the way we expected it would. The life of a disciple of Christ must be one of faith and trust.

Mary’s first reaction was “wonder”, questions, pondering. That’s a great place to start. When something comes out of left field, don’t ignore it, but consider what God may be doing. Pay attention to the surrounding “signs” in your life. Be aware that as His Child it’s not always going to make sense immediately as to what God is up to; but rest assured it is good!

This holiday season, what has happened that you didn’t expect? How has God changed your plans? Or maybe changed you? What has happened that has caused you to wonder, ponder or even question?

Maybe what you’ve been expecting is far less than what God is promising you or going to fulfill? Be like Mary, a humble servant and let God continue to birth new life in you and through you. Expect Him to move in ways that are wonderful this season.