by Cathy Vinson

What words came to trouble Mary so? Surprisingly, they were words of greeting from the throne of God, words of His favor. They were to be accepted into her heart during the moments of this divine encounter.

As might happen with us, this moment caught Mary offguard and met her abruptly. But her initial response isn't what mattered in the end. Given a few moments for these awesome words to assimilate, her soft, willing heart was soon unearthed into obedience.

The news of God's favor can be troubling! Caught in many an unworthy moment, news of His goodness and favor can be deeply troubling..."Depart from me, for I am a sinful man" (Lk 5:8). Still, God's affections remain undeterred.

If Mary could receive the greeting of heaven into her initially troubled soul, much would be opened up! She would actually receive the Son of God.

As believers, we, as Mary, have been chosen to receive the seed within (1 Jn 3:9). Mary accepted the greeting; then she accepted His Seed. In letting His favor in, she allowed entry of His Seed as well.

If we are at first not inclined to the Father's initiative, may we nevertheless proceed. For it isn't the one who says "yes" that does His will, but the one who DOES it, even if he is initially perplexed and troubled (Mt 21:31).

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Mary was greatly troubled at his words.

(Luke 1:29)