Mary must have experienced such a wide range of emotions as Gabriel stood before her delivering God’s message. She might have been confused, surprised, fearful, or maybe in awe, but what definitely stands out is her humility. Mary was not one who would have stood out in the crowd. She was just a young Hebrew girl who loved Jesus and was preparing to marry a man named Joseph. Yet God chose her above all others to be the mother of the Son of God. She found favor with God, and He had an incredibly special place for her in His plan to redeem mankind.

Though confused and fearful with the appearance of God’s angel, Mary carefully listened to God’s message. Mary would give birth to Jesus, God’s Son, and yet she was perplexed. She was a virgin. She had never been with a man, so she asked one question – not from doubt but for clarification. With the angel’s answer, Mary responded, “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word.” (Luke 1:38)

Days later, Mary hurried to Judea to visit Elizabeth, who would also experience a miraculous birth. Greeting Elizabeth as she entered the house, the baby joyfully jumped in Elizabeth’s womb in hearing the voice of Jesus’ mother. With Elizabeth recognizing Mary’s blessed position, Mary offered this song of praise, a portion of the Magnificat.

“And Mary said, “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has looked on the humble estate of his servant. For behold, from now on all generations will call me blessed; for he who is mighty has done great things for me, and holy is his name. And his mercy is for those who fear him from generation to generation.”” (Luke 1:46-50)

No fear, no confusion, just awe that God would choose her. She had done nothing to earn or deserve His favor, but God looked on her in her humble position in life and bestowed on her the greatest blessing. He would not just do this miraculous act through her, but it was for her. In one visit from an angel, Mary had gone from the unnoticed to the most blessed among women. God allowed her to be the vessel to bring the promised Messiah and deliverer of all mankind into this world. All she could do was offer Him her gratitude and praise.

Though none of us will ever be blessed in the same manner as Mary, God has given each of us a part to play in His plan for mankind. Most of us also go through life unnoticed, yet God notices us in the ordinariness of our life. Though we have done nothing to earn or deserve His favor, God chooses to use each one of us. We have the honor of serving the Almighty God, our Savior, to display His glory to everyone around us.

God also chooses you in big and small ways. As you faithfully serve Him, you will find He does not just work through you, but He does great things for you. Humbly responding to His call awakens the realization of who God is, His goodness to you, His great love for you, and the value He places in you. Your faith grows causing an outpouring of joy and awe that you have been chosen by the Almighty God. As you begin your day, ask God how you can be His vessel. Used by Him day after day, your faith will grow as you know Him more, giving you a heart of praise.