A similar scene unfolds as the angel, Gabriel, now goes to tell Mary that she will be with child from the Lord. Mary was betrothed to Joseph a descendant of David. Gabriel greets Mary by calling her “O favored one” and calming her fears about what she was experiencing.

Mary was confused as to how this would all come to pass as she was betrothed and a virgin. It would be problematic for her to be with child before the marriage to Joseph. He could put her away and she would be shamed for her perceived immorality.

Gabriel assures her that the power of the “Most High” will be with her and she will give birth to the Son of God. He also tells her of Elizabeth’s good fortune as she is now 6 months along with John.

Mary goes to visit Elizabeth. The baby would leap in her womb at the sound of Mary’s greeting. These 2 children will be connected. Elizabeth was filled with the Spirit and realizes that Mary has been blessed to carry the Lord.

Mary has a song of praise in her heart that is recorded for us.

One huge takeaway from these scriptures is Mary’s willingness to be and do what the Lord requires. Her words in verse 38 should be words that we are willing to utter today. “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord: let it be to me according to your word.” Are we subject to God and his word? Are we willing to be what the gospel makes us to be? Are we willing to do what the gospel asks us to do? Can we say with Mary, “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my savior?”