Today's "Learning with Luke" (2)
23 December, 2012
Understandably, both Zechariah and Mary independently ask the obvious question , "How?" They each have a reason for asking the question.
For John it is....
"How can I know this will happen? I'm an old man now, and my wife is also well along in years." (Luke 1:18)For Mary, it is.....
But how can I have a baby? I am a virgin." (Luke 1:34 NLT)
But there is something about Zechariah's response that results in him not being able to speak until the birth of his son, John. His inability to speak sounds like a discipline or judgment because he questioned and didn't believe. At least that's what Gabriel seemed to say.
Mary asked the "How?" question, too, but she seems to have been excused. Maybe more was expected from Zechariah because he was a priest and well versed in the Old Testament? Whatever be the reason, Mary's response to the announcement is one of the most beautiful in all of Scripture.
Mary responded, "I am the Lord's servant, and I am willing to accept whatever he wants. May everything you have said come true." And then the angel left. (Luke 1:38 NLT)
Was it all clear to Mary now? I doubt it. Did she fully understand all that would befall her in the years ahead? Hardly. Was her submission to the purposes of God and her part in them whole-hearted? Absolutely!!
Mary represents or embodies that saying, "God said it, I believe it, That settles it"!