Mary’s Call: A Journey of Faith, Questions, and Worship

When the angel Gabriel appeared to Mary, his greeting was both startling and extraordinary: “Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.” Mary's reaction was deeply human—she was troubled and tried to reason through the moment. Yet, her response to this divine interruption is a powerful example of faith, humility, and surrender.

It’s Okay to Have Questions

When Gabriel told Mary she would conceive and give birth to the Son of God, her first response was, “How will this be, since I am a virgin?” This wasn’t a question rooted in doubt but one of logistics. Mary believed the message but sought understanding.

In her cultural context, this calling came with weighty consequences. For an unmarried young woman, pregnancy outside of wedlock could lead to public disgrace, or even worse, her death. Yet Mary’s questions didn’t reflect resistance but a willingness to understand how God’s plan would unfold within His own laws and promises.

Sometimes, God calls us to tasks that seem impossible or even contradictory to our understanding of Him. It’s okay to ask, “How?” as long as our hearts remain open to His direction.

Obedience Without Full Understanding

Mary’s response to Gabriel’s explanation was simple yet profound: “I am the Lord’s servant. May your word to me be fulfilled.” She didn’t demand all the details or wait for assurance of how others would react. She chose obedience, trusting that God would take care of the rest—including her relationship with Joseph.

Faith doesn’t always come with clarity, but it does require trust. Mary’s acceptance shows us that we don’t have to understand every step to move forward in obedience.

Finding Community in the Call

Immediately after receiving the angel’s message, Mary hurried to visit Elizabeth, a relative who was also experiencing a miraculous pregnancy. This wasn’t just a family visit—it was a pursuit of community with someone who could relate to the divine work in her life.

When God calls us to something extraordinary, we need to surround ourselves with others who believe in His power. Sharing our journey with those who can encourage, uplift, and worship with us strengthens our faith and helps us avoid the doubt that can creep in from skepticism or isolation.

Joyful Worship Flows from a Heart of Faith

Mary’s visit with Elizabeth culminated in a moment of shared worship. Mary’s song, the Magnificat, is a beautiful expression of her heart, overflowing with joy, gratitude, and awe for what God was doing in her life and the world.

When we respond to God’s call with eagerness and trust, it stirs a deep sense of joy and purpose. Worship becomes our natural response—a reflection of our faith and alignment with His will.

The Takeaway

Mary’s story reminds us that God’s call often comes with uncertainty, questions, and challenges. Yet, when we respond with faith, surround ourselves with the right community, and choose worship over worry, we can embrace His plan with joy and expectancy.

If you’ve received a call from God, step forward in faith. Seek understanding, but don’t wait for all the answers. Surround yourself with believers who can propel you forward, and let your heart overflow in worship for the miraculous work He is doing in and through you.