Viewing the birth of Jesus through the eyes of Christmas characters brings interesting insight. We will never know all Mary’s thoughts or what all she went through, but the Bible does give us some clues. So, let’s view Christmas through Mary’s eyes!

Mary and Joseph were betrothed (engaged to be married) when, as Luke 1 describes, the angel Gabriel came to Mary. After calling her “highly favored” and blessed by the Lord, he announced to Mary that she would conceive and bring forth a Son, Jesus. He would be called the Son of the Highest and would reign over the house of Jacob forever. Wow!

“How can this be?” Mary wondered. Gabriel explained the Holy Spirit would come upon her and she would bear a Son.

Imagine hearing that news. First, it would be an immaculate conception…not of her husband-to-be. Pregnancy had never happened that way, so how does one grasp that idea? Secondly, Mary was not yet married. In ancient Jewish culture, that was absolutely taboo! How would she be viewed? What would townspeople think of her and her family? Thirdly, what would she say to Joseph…and would he believe a word of it? It sounded like good news, but what was Mary to do?

Luke gives us insight into Mary’s response. Immediately upon hearing the news, Mary said, “Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word.” Then, Scripture records the song she sang. (Luke 1:46-55)

Mary refused to live in disgrace, but instead, surrendered her life to the Lord. She was certain of His message and, though she likely did not fully understand all the “how’s” and “why’s,” she took God at His Word and put her trust in Him.

Christmas should be celebrated the same way today. Believing God for the unbelievable, putting faith in His Word, and accepting God’s will for our lives will produce a song of praise, just as Mary offered up.

Ask the Holy Spirit to guide you into complete trust of God for all that life brings. Give Him full control and watch to see what He brings about in your life!

PS: Biblical accounts such as this come to life when you visit Israel. Just weeks ago, our tour group visited the Shepherd Fields of Bethlehem where Jesus was born. Standing onsite where God’s Word comes to life draws you into the narrative as though you were there in person. It makes every Bible narrative, including Christmas, come to life!

If you have never been to Israel, why not make 2026 the year that changes your life forever? You will never be the same! Stay tuned for a special announcement tomorrow. See you then!