Mary's first knowledge that she will bear a son comes from the angel Gabriel, who informs her that she will be having a son, who not only will be king, but as the "Son of the Most High," will be divine as well (1.31ff). Gabriel further explains that the Holy Spirit will bring about the conception by "overshadowing" her (Gk. episkiazo), thus making the child holy.
Mary responds to all this by saying, "Here I am, the servant of the Lord; let it be with me according to your word" (1.38). Her faith is incredible and as we will see, she is overwhelmed with excitement (1.46ff). Overwhelmed with excitement is how we often feel when we are being blessed by God.
But the story of Mary and Jesus continues. While at the beginning Mary is filled with tremendous joy, it won't be long until she experiences tremendous pain. Her eldest son will reject her (Mk 3.33) and she will have to bear the burden of watching his enemies plot against him and eventually succeed at taking his life. We often feel God is absent during these times.
But the story doesn't end there. Mary experiences the resurrection - the new life made available to the whole world. And through her flesh and God's unending grace we all are able to experience new life.
Our adventure with God may follow a similar plot - we experience the monumental highs and the devastating lows. But through all of it we have a promise: that no matter what this life throws at us, we hope in the resurrection.
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