The Perfect Plan - Miracle of AdventSample

Humbled Perfection, The Blessing of Mary's Humility

The first time the angel Gabriel appears in the Bible is in an Old Testament vision of Daniel. God’s messenger promises that not only will Jerusalem be rebuilt and restored, but that God will send a Messiah. Sin and transgressions will be atoned for, prophecies will be fulfilled, and a new chapter for God’s people will begin.

The time has now come when the angel Gabriel appears once again. His message to Mary, “You are favored...you are blessed...don’t be afraid...and God is with you.” Mary could have objected, insisting that she was too young, afraid, or unfit. But Gabriel assures her that nothing is impossible with God.

Just as God assured Daniel centuries earlier that He had a plan to send a Messiah to save His people, God showed Mary that she was exactly who He wanted to help carry out His plan. If we, as imperfect people, humble ourselves before the Lord and submit to his will, God can use us to further his kingdom work in incredible ways, just like he used Mary.

This morning, we light the final purple candle, which symbolizes Love. We are reminded of the overarching story of the Bible: creation, the fall, redemption, and the ongoing story of restoration until Judgment Day. God loves us so much that he sent an angelic messenger to proclaim the anticipated birth of His son, Jesus. God’s love is extended to us through the Christ Child who will go on to save His people, prophecy fulfilled. The Lord extends His love to the lowly and humble, challenging us, in turn, to love others so that we might serve with purpose in His grander plans.