Sometimes when God tells us the things He wants to do through us, we take a look at ourselves and think, ‘How can this happen?’ We worry that we don’t have the training, resources, skill, or strength to accomplish it. But we need to remember that He will accomplish it; we don’t have to do things in our own strength or by ourselves. The Christmas story has a great reminder of this. Mary was a young, unmarried girl, and God called her to do a huge thing – to give birth to the Son of God. ‘Mary asked the angel, “But how can this happen? I am a virgin.” The angel replied, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you”’ (vv. 34-35 NLT). It’s God who can cause impossible things to happen. It’s God who can use anyone to fulfil His plans. It’s God who can give us a vision, inspire us with creative ideas, introduce us to the right people, and empower us to do the thing He’s called us to. God had a unique plan for Mary, and He has one for us too. We may not be able to see the future or know all that God has in store for us, but we do know that He has a plan. After the angel spoke to Mary, notice what she said: ‘“I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered. “May your word to me be fulfilled”’ (v.38 NIV). She was taking an extreme risk. To be pregnant and unmarried brought really bad consequences in those days. Yet she gave herself willingly to God – and the results were miraculous. And God can do the same for us when we stop questioning His plan for us, and say ‘may your word to me be fulfilled’. 

What Now?

What’s God calling you to do? This Christmas, think about the courage Mary had, and then, if you feel ready, say to God ‘may your word to me be fulfilled.’