Sunday 24 December 2023

Psalm 89:1-4, 19-26

Background

I recall reading somewhere that the angelic greeting we read as ‘Do not be afraid!’(v. 30) actually equates to "Please stop screaming." When I read that I smiled and even giggled a little as I imagined what my reaction would have been if faced by an angel.

Please stop screaming. What did Mary feel on meeting that angel? Fear? Panic? A calming sense of peace? A mixture of all of them tinged with an element of awe and wonder? We read that she was 'much perplexed' (v. 29) which in some translations is 'greatly troubled'. It doesn’t really encapsulate any true feeling.

I know we are told not to rely upon feelings alone in our encounters with God but this was an extraordinary event and it called out an extraordinary response. To be pregnant out of wedlock was a situation that was punishable by death at the time – never mind the names that Mary faced being called and the aspersions thrown at her honesty, integrity and behaviour.

To say ‘yes’ to God was an amazing act of faith and trust – "Here am I, the servant of the Lord; let it be with me according to your word." (v. 38)

Despite all the possible horrors she might face, despite what she was feeling at the time, despite what others may think or say – Mary said ‘Yes’. What an incredible (and brave) response.

To Ponder:

• When have you been called upon by God to undertake something that seemed impossible? What happened?

 Prayer

Lord, keep us open and alert to your presence in our everyday. Help us to be willing to respond with a ‘Yes’ to your calling. Amen.