1 00:00:00,160 --> 00:00:04,240 Speaker 1: And the angel said, unto her, fear not Mary, for 2 00:00:04,360 --> 00:00:08,800 Speaker 1: thou hast found favor with God. And behold, thou shalt 3 00:00:08,840 --> 00:00:13,039 Speaker 1: conceive in thy womb and bring forth a son, and 4 00:00:13,119 --> 00:00:20,279 Speaker 1: shalt call his name Jesus. Luke one thirty and thirty one. 5 00:00:20,960 --> 00:00:23,360 Speaker 1: Heavenly Father, I am so grateful that you have a 6 00:00:23,400 --> 00:00:26,960 Speaker 1: plan and purpose for each one of us. You sent 7 00:00:27,000 --> 00:00:30,120 Speaker 1: an angel to confirm to Mary that she was favored 8 00:00:30,120 --> 00:00:34,760 Speaker 1: among women. You chose her to bring forth your son 9 00:00:35,600 --> 00:00:39,600 Speaker 1: and told her to call him Jesus. She had no 10 00:00:39,720 --> 00:00:43,800 Speaker 1: idea what all that would entail, but she submitted to 11 00:00:43,840 --> 00:00:46,840 Speaker 1: your will and trusted that you would guide her through 12 00:00:47,000 --> 00:00:51,320 Speaker 1: whatever it would take for that to happen. She was 13 00:00:51,479 --> 00:00:54,480 Speaker 1: just a teenage girl who was not married to Joseph, 14 00:00:54,560 --> 00:00:58,320 Speaker 1: her fiancee, and yet she was to have a child 15 00:00:58,560 --> 00:01:02,440 Speaker 1: out of wedlock. How terrifying that must have been for 16 00:01:02,480 --> 00:01:07,199 Speaker 1: this young girl at this time. But she said, yes, 17 00:01:07,400 --> 00:01:11,959 Speaker 1: Lord Father, there are things you are calling me to 18 00:01:12,240 --> 00:01:16,959 Speaker 1: that I don't understand, that are often so contrary to 19 00:01:17,080 --> 00:01:21,039 Speaker 1: my natural senses. But yet I know it's your voice 20 00:01:21,040 --> 00:01:24,800 Speaker 1: directing me. It's scary when I step out in faith 21 00:01:24,840 --> 00:01:28,760 Speaker 1: and follow your will for my life. But as I yield, 22 00:01:29,360 --> 00:01:32,840 Speaker 1: then say yes, Lord, I find purpose and meaning for 23 00:01:32,920 --> 00:01:38,120 Speaker 1: my life beyond what I could ever imagine. Mary never 24 00:01:38,200 --> 00:01:40,679 Speaker 1: imagined she would carry the savior of the world in 25 00:01:40,760 --> 00:01:45,240 Speaker 1: her womb, and I can't imagine all the glorious adventures 26 00:01:45,280 --> 00:01:49,920 Speaker 1: you have in store for me. Lord. I want to 27 00:01:49,960 --> 00:01:56,160 Speaker 1: be as yielded to you as Mary and say yes, Lord, 28 00:01:56,600 --> 00:01:59,880 Speaker 1: not my will, but thy will be done in my 29 00:02:00,240 --> 00:02:09,880 Speaker 1: life in Jesus' name. Amen. Stay tuned to immerse yourself 30 00:02:09,919 --> 00:02:13,919 Speaker 1: in the Greatest Stories Ever Told from pray dot COM's podcast, 31 00:02:14,400 --> 00:02:15,600 Speaker 1: Heroes in the Bible. 32 00:02:17,280 --> 00:02:19,840 Speaker 2: Hi, I'm doctor Tony Evans and I'm excited for you 33 00:02:19,880 --> 00:02:23,120 Speaker 2: to join me on Heroes in the Bible Jesus. Please 34 00:02:23,160 --> 00:02:26,440 Speaker 2: follow this podcast on Apple or Spotify to get the 35 00:02:26,520 --> 00:02:31,200 Speaker 2: latest episodes so you can continue strengthening your relationship with Jesus. 36 00:02:31,880 --> 00:02:34,520 Speaker 2: Welcome to the greatest story ever told. It is a 37 00:02:34,600 --> 00:02:37,519 Speaker 2: tale of a shepherd's heart for his sheep, a father's 38 00:02:37,560 --> 00:02:40,520 Speaker 2: love for his children, and a hero's triumph over death 39 00:02:40,600 --> 00:02:43,880 Speaker 2: and darkness. This is a story that continues to shape 40 00:02:43,960 --> 00:02:46,840 Speaker 2: and mold the world around us, bringing the divine heart 41 00:02:46,880 --> 00:02:49,880 Speaker 2: of God right into the heart of you and I. 42 00:02:50,560 --> 00:02:53,840 Speaker 2: In this episode, we meet the revered and loved Mary 43 00:02:53,840 --> 00:02:57,320 Speaker 2: and Joseph. They are chosen to take on a tremendous 44 00:02:57,320 --> 00:03:01,040 Speaker 2: burden and great blessing this episod. This reminds us that 45 00:03:01,080 --> 00:03:05,280 Speaker 2: being called does not always mean being comfortable. These two 46 00:03:05,639 --> 00:03:08,840 Speaker 2: ordinary people are going to embark on an extraordinary journey 47 00:03:08,840 --> 00:03:12,040 Speaker 2: of faith, love, and destiny. I love how the epic 48 00:03:12,040 --> 00:03:15,360 Speaker 2: adventure of the life and ministry of Jesus begins in 49 00:03:15,440 --> 00:03:21,600 Speaker 2: an unremarkable place with unremarkable people. Unlike other religious origin stories, 50 00:03:21,919 --> 00:03:27,240 Speaker 2: Jesus isn't born from a volcano or sculpted from dragon scales. 51 00:03:27,600 --> 00:03:30,960 Speaker 2: He's born and raised with ordinary people. You and I 52 00:03:31,040 --> 00:03:34,200 Speaker 2: will get a glimpse into the humble context Jesus was 53 00:03:34,200 --> 00:03:37,320 Speaker 2: born into and the noble people that were chosen to 54 00:03:37,400 --> 00:03:41,040 Speaker 2: parent him. This episode is a sweet reminder to all 55 00:03:41,080 --> 00:03:45,920 Speaker 2: of us that God does extraordinary things through ordinary people. 56 00:03:46,680 --> 00:03:50,080 Speaker 2: This episode reminds me of Tewo Corinthians four seven, which 57 00:03:50,120 --> 00:03:53,440 Speaker 2: says we now have this light shining in our hearts, 58 00:03:53,640 --> 00:03:57,560 Speaker 2: but we ourselves are like fragile clay jars containing this 59 00:03:57,720 --> 00:04:01,480 Speaker 2: great treasure. This makes it clear that our great power 60 00:04:01,600 --> 00:04:05,520 Speaker 2: is from God, not from ourselves. God chooses to story 61 00:04:05,520 --> 00:04:08,840 Speaker 2: his power and glory in us fragile humans. I love 62 00:04:09,120 --> 00:04:11,840 Speaker 2: how in the process he makes us strong. That is 63 00:04:11,840 --> 00:04:15,000 Speaker 2: what will happen in this episode. But first we will 64 00:04:15,040 --> 00:04:18,599 Speaker 2: begin with a prelude. This prelude reveals a promise that 65 00:04:18,760 --> 00:04:21,840 Speaker 2: was etched upon the hearts of God's people. Let's begin 66 00:04:21,880 --> 00:04:25,800 Speaker 2: with episode two. You are Chosen. Be sure to stay 67 00:04:25,839 --> 00:04:29,240 Speaker 2: tuned afterwards as we unpack the themes and treasures from 68 00:04:29,320 --> 00:04:40,279 Speaker 2: this episode. Talk to you soon. Prelude to chapter two. 69 00:04:41,680 --> 00:04:49,200 Speaker 2: Fear not, Abram, I am your shield. I am your 70 00:04:49,400 --> 00:04:52,760 Speaker 2: protector and blessing forever more. 71 00:04:53,200 --> 00:04:58,160 Speaker 3: God's voice whispered softly. Aprim closed his eyes and allowed 72 00:04:58,160 --> 00:05:01,960 Speaker 3: the midnight breeze to glide across his face. He was 73 00:05:02,000 --> 00:05:05,640 Speaker 3: on his knees with fists gripping the tall grass below. 74 00:05:06,680 --> 00:05:11,000 Speaker 3: Abram was troubled and doubted God's willingness to bless him. 75 00:05:11,320 --> 00:05:15,160 Speaker 3: He left his home to follow God's calling. Yet now 76 00:05:15,360 --> 00:05:18,919 Speaker 3: as he advanced in years, the true desire of his 77 00:05:19,040 --> 00:05:23,120 Speaker 3: heart had eluded him. He was still childless and feared 78 00:05:23,440 --> 00:05:27,600 Speaker 3: dying without an offspring to carry on his name. Abram 79 00:05:27,839 --> 00:05:31,760 Speaker 3: slammed his forehead into the ground and wept O Lord 80 00:05:32,200 --> 00:05:34,680 Speaker 3: but what good is your blessing if it dies with me? 81 00:05:35,760 --> 00:05:39,400 Speaker 3: I am still childless. Shall everything you gave me go 82 00:05:39,480 --> 00:05:44,039 Speaker 3: to my servants. The wind whistled through the valley, flowing 83 00:05:44,080 --> 00:05:50,919 Speaker 3: against Abram's kneeling body. Look up, Abram, God whispered, Look 84 00:05:51,640 --> 00:05:57,279 Speaker 3: and behold my glory. Abram looked to the heavens. Bright 85 00:05:57,360 --> 00:06:01,640 Speaker 3: stars filled the skies like bripple in the sea. The 86 00:06:01,680 --> 00:06:06,400 Speaker 3: galaxy could be seen stretching across the firmament. Abram stood 87 00:06:06,400 --> 00:06:10,839 Speaker 3: in awe the vastness of God's creation. A single tear 88 00:06:11,279 --> 00:06:15,719 Speaker 3: streamed down his face as God spoke to him again, saying, 89 00:06:16,360 --> 00:06:18,760 Speaker 3: do you see these stars? Amber? 90 00:06:20,000 --> 00:06:22,880 Speaker 4: Are you able to number the lights above? 91 00:06:23,680 --> 00:06:27,719 Speaker 3: Abram's eyes glowed as he basped in the glory above. 92 00:06:28,680 --> 00:06:34,440 Speaker 3: The wind blew in his ears as God spoke boldly, proclaiming. 93 00:06:34,160 --> 00:06:40,200 Speaker 5: I will make your offspring out number the stars. Through 94 00:06:40,320 --> 00:06:46,080 Speaker 5: your seed, all the nations will be blessed. I will 95 00:06:46,200 --> 00:06:51,760 Speaker 5: raise up a nation through you. You need only to believe. 96 00:06:52,839 --> 00:06:56,360 Speaker 5: Abram planted his feet firmly on the ground and raised 97 00:06:56,360 --> 00:07:00,480 Speaker 5: his arms. He yelled to the heavens as the winds 98 00:07:00,960 --> 00:07:04,440 Speaker 5: he beamed from cheek to cheek, soaking in the presence 99 00:07:04,520 --> 00:07:09,000 Speaker 5: of his God. He believed in God's promise. He believed 100 00:07:09,160 --> 00:07:12,640 Speaker 5: that one day God would raise up a hero from 101 00:07:12,640 --> 00:07:16,679 Speaker 5: his offspring, one that would bless the whole world through. 102 00:07:16,520 --> 00:07:23,640 Speaker 3: The light and love of God. Chapter two, You Are Chosen. 103 00:07:25,720 --> 00:07:28,720 Speaker 3: Mary rose from her bed and breathed in the curd 104 00:07:28,800 --> 00:07:32,280 Speaker 3: morning air. A dim light was peeking slightly through the 105 00:07:32,360 --> 00:07:37,440 Speaker 3: lattice of her humble home. Mary quietly removed her blanket 106 00:07:37,680 --> 00:07:40,880 Speaker 3: and stealthily climbed out of bed, trying not to wake 107 00:07:40,920 --> 00:07:46,200 Speaker 3: her siblings sleeping beside her. After getting dressed, she stepped outside. 108 00:07:46,960 --> 00:07:50,880 Speaker 3: The air was dry and cool. Goats were beginning to 109 00:07:51,160 --> 00:07:54,800 Speaker 3: emerge to the brewster's call, and families were beginning to 110 00:07:54,840 --> 00:07:59,560 Speaker 3: stir awake. Retrieving a pailful water, Mary made her way 111 00:07:59,640 --> 00:08:04,440 Speaker 3: down to the single well in town. Nazareth was a 112 00:08:04,560 --> 00:08:08,120 Speaker 3: poor village. The only remarkable thing about it was just 113 00:08:08,160 --> 00:08:11,920 Speaker 3: how unremarkable it was. It was far from the trade routes, 114 00:08:12,440 --> 00:08:16,720 Speaker 3: nowhere near the sea, and lacking the rich culture many 115 00:08:16,760 --> 00:08:20,680 Speaker 3: other cities had. There was no rich history of brave heroes, 116 00:08:20,920 --> 00:08:25,120 Speaker 3: and certainly no new and exciting events to share. Nazareth 117 00:08:25,400 --> 00:08:29,640 Speaker 3: was a predictably dull place, but For Mary, there was 118 00:08:29,840 --> 00:08:33,880 Speaker 3: reason to be excited. She walked down the dusty pathway 119 00:08:33,880 --> 00:08:37,680 Speaker 3: to the well, stumbling on the occasional hole in the ground. 120 00:08:38,600 --> 00:08:42,680 Speaker 3: The dark haired young woman playfully hummed and trotted along, 121 00:08:43,280 --> 00:08:46,440 Speaker 3: hoping to cross paths with the Stonemasons making their way 122 00:08:46,480 --> 00:08:49,480 Speaker 3: to the quarry. She made her way to the well 123 00:08:49,920 --> 00:08:53,480 Speaker 3: and drew the water slowly, allowing her eyes to wander 124 00:08:53,480 --> 00:08:56,560 Speaker 3: in the distance towards the path leading up the hill. 125 00:08:57,679 --> 00:09:00,720 Speaker 3: She continued to hum, doing her best, did not look 126 00:09:00,840 --> 00:09:05,120 Speaker 3: desperate as other women who endured hopes the well. As 127 00:09:05,120 --> 00:09:07,679 Speaker 3: she drew the last of her water, she could hear 128 00:09:07,720 --> 00:09:10,680 Speaker 3: the footsteps of a few men making their way towards 129 00:09:10,679 --> 00:09:15,000 Speaker 3: the quarry. Mary blushed as she caught sight of Joseph 130 00:09:15,120 --> 00:09:20,240 Speaker 3: carrying his tools with the other craftsmen. Joseph was not 131 00:09:20,320 --> 00:09:23,840 Speaker 3: known for his strong spirit or his rugged good looks. 132 00:09:24,720 --> 00:09:28,120 Speaker 3: He was a humble craftsman who was best known for 133 00:09:28,200 --> 00:09:32,480 Speaker 3: his kind heart and devotion to the war. The two 134 00:09:32,520 --> 00:09:35,320 Speaker 3: of them were betrothed and had committed themselves to be 135 00:09:35,400 --> 00:09:39,560 Speaker 3: married in just a few short months. To Mary, he 136 00:09:39,600 --> 00:09:44,360 Speaker 3: represented something new, a small sliver of excitement in an 137 00:09:44,400 --> 00:09:50,040 Speaker 3: otherwise dull existence. The two blocked eyes, and Joseph grinned 138 00:09:50,080 --> 00:09:52,520 Speaker 3: ear to ear at the sight of his bride to bee. 139 00:09:53,240 --> 00:09:57,960 Speaker 3: He waved with an almost childish enthusiasm and was immediately 140 00:09:58,120 --> 00:10:02,280 Speaker 3: teased by the men walking aside. The two of them blushed, 141 00:10:02,559 --> 00:10:07,640 Speaker 3: allowing others to playfully harass them. As Joseph continued his 142 00:10:07,720 --> 00:10:12,560 Speaker 3: way towards the quarry. Mary finished filling her pail. She 143 00:10:12,600 --> 00:10:16,400 Speaker 3: stumbled up the slight incline back to her home. Her 144 00:10:16,440 --> 00:10:19,520 Speaker 3: siblings had gone off to feed the animals, and no 145 00:10:19,600 --> 00:10:22,840 Speaker 3: doubt her father and mother had departed to work and 146 00:10:22,960 --> 00:10:26,560 Speaker 3: tend to the home. She waddled with the heavy pail 147 00:10:26,600 --> 00:10:29,320 Speaker 3: in both her arms and propped the door open with 148 00:10:29,360 --> 00:10:33,320 Speaker 3: her foot. Backing into the room, Mary turned around to 149 00:10:33,320 --> 00:10:36,079 Speaker 3: see a creature perched on the latters of her room. 150 00:10:36,600 --> 00:10:38,600 Speaker 6: Greetings, oh, favorite one. 151 00:10:38,840 --> 00:10:43,560 Speaker 3: The angel exclaimed. Mary gasped, and the entire pail of 152 00:10:43,640 --> 00:10:47,360 Speaker 3: water spilled everywhere. Mary backpedaled at the sight of the 153 00:10:47,400 --> 00:10:50,880 Speaker 3: angel and slipped on to the floor. Her head hit 154 00:10:50,920 --> 00:10:52,920 Speaker 3: the ground with a thud as she let out a 155 00:10:52,960 --> 00:10:57,320 Speaker 3: slight shriek of pain. Grasping her head and clumsily stumbling 156 00:10:57,360 --> 00:11:00,320 Speaker 3: to her feet, Mary turned to dart for the door. 157 00:11:01,160 --> 00:11:04,199 Speaker 3: Before she could take another step, the angel was right 158 00:11:04,240 --> 00:11:08,520 Speaker 3: in front of her. He gave a reassuring smile and said. 159 00:11:08,800 --> 00:11:12,439 Speaker 6: Please, do not be afraid. The Lord is with you. 160 00:11:12,920 --> 00:11:16,800 Speaker 3: Mary looked at the angel, perplexed but slightly less afraid. 161 00:11:17,679 --> 00:11:20,360 Speaker 3: She backed away slowly and sat on the side of 162 00:11:20,400 --> 00:11:24,079 Speaker 3: her bed. The angel opened up his arms and. 163 00:11:24,120 --> 00:11:30,280 Speaker 6: Said, I am Gabriel, and I have come with good news. You, 164 00:11:30,720 --> 00:11:33,120 Speaker 6: oh favorite one, are chosen. 165 00:11:34,160 --> 00:11:37,720 Speaker 3: What does that mean, Mary asked, rubbing the back of 166 00:11:37,720 --> 00:11:38,199 Speaker 3: her head. 167 00:11:38,640 --> 00:11:42,880 Speaker 6: You have found favor with God, Mary, Gabriel explained, you 168 00:11:43,040 --> 00:11:46,000 Speaker 6: are the one He has chosen to bear the greatest 169 00:11:46,040 --> 00:11:49,320 Speaker 6: burden and blessing this world has ever known. 170 00:11:49,920 --> 00:11:53,720 Speaker 3: Gabriel's tone shifted for a moment, as if he was 171 00:11:54,040 --> 00:11:54,880 Speaker 3: playing a harp. 172 00:11:55,120 --> 00:12:00,640 Speaker 6: With his words, you, Mary, will conceive a son in 173 00:12:00,760 --> 00:12:04,559 Speaker 6: your wound, will be the chosen one of God. He 174 00:12:04,640 --> 00:12:07,559 Speaker 6: will be the great and mighty, son of the Most High, 175 00:12:08,000 --> 00:12:11,800 Speaker 6: and on his back the weight of all mankind will 176 00:12:11,840 --> 00:12:16,200 Speaker 6: be carried. The Lord will restore his kingdom in him, 177 00:12:16,920 --> 00:12:20,200 Speaker 6: and he will be given the throne of his father David. 178 00:12:21,240 --> 00:12:25,280 Speaker 6: His kingdom will have no end, and his glory will 179 00:12:25,400 --> 00:12:27,199 Speaker 6: rain into all eternity. 180 00:12:27,920 --> 00:12:31,720 Speaker 3: Mary's jaw was nearly hitting the floor. As she listened 181 00:12:31,720 --> 00:12:34,400 Speaker 3: to Gabriel. She shook her head in dismay. 182 00:12:35,040 --> 00:12:39,120 Speaker 7: How are these things possible? I am a virgin, I 183 00:12:39,200 --> 00:12:41,920 Speaker 7: am very young and have not yet known a man. 184 00:12:43,440 --> 00:12:47,400 Speaker 3: Mary's eyes were beginning to water. She was overwhelmed by 185 00:12:47,440 --> 00:12:52,360 Speaker 3: the whole experience. Gabriel was perched high above Mary, but 186 00:12:52,440 --> 00:12:56,240 Speaker 3: decided to come down at high level. He tilted his 187 00:12:56,320 --> 00:12:58,920 Speaker 3: head to the side and looked Mary in the eyes. 188 00:12:59,480 --> 00:13:01,520 Speaker 6: All things are possible with God. 189 00:13:01,360 --> 00:13:04,760 Speaker 3: Mary, the creature smiled and raised his hands. 190 00:13:05,360 --> 00:13:08,720 Speaker 6: The Holy Spirit will come upon you. The power of 191 00:13:08,760 --> 00:13:13,560 Speaker 6: the Most High God will overshadow you. The child will 192 00:13:13,600 --> 00:13:15,280 Speaker 6: be the son of God himself. 193 00:13:15,960 --> 00:13:17,920 Speaker 3: Mary's eyes widened in dismay. 194 00:13:18,400 --> 00:13:21,160 Speaker 6: No doubt, you have heard that your cousin Elizabeth has 195 00:13:21,200 --> 00:13:24,840 Speaker 6: conceived in her old age, a woman far past her 196 00:13:24,920 --> 00:13:30,360 Speaker 6: child bearing ears, is already six months pregnant. Now tell me, 197 00:13:31,200 --> 00:13:33,000 Speaker 6: is there anything the Lord cannot do? 198 00:13:34,200 --> 00:13:38,960 Speaker 3: Mary sat there quietly. Even now, she could feel God's 199 00:13:39,000 --> 00:13:43,360 Speaker 3: spirit emboldening her. Her mind was like a rushing river 200 00:13:43,760 --> 00:13:48,120 Speaker 3: slowly narrowing into a quiet stream. She closed her eyes 201 00:13:48,160 --> 00:13:51,200 Speaker 3: tight and placed a hand on her belly. It was 202 00:13:51,240 --> 00:13:54,760 Speaker 3: at that moment Mary felt the favor of God upon her. 203 00:13:55,640 --> 00:13:59,120 Speaker 3: Tears streamed from her eyes, and a smile made its 204 00:13:59,120 --> 00:14:02,560 Speaker 3: way across her face. She opened her eyes to Heaven 205 00:14:02,760 --> 00:14:08,720 Speaker 3: and laughed joy, unimaginable and unexplainable joy. Mary rose to 206 00:14:08,760 --> 00:14:12,040 Speaker 3: her feet and wiped her tears. She wiped the dust 207 00:14:12,120 --> 00:14:16,880 Speaker 3: off her dress and smiled at Gabriel. After a deep breath, 208 00:14:17,120 --> 00:14:17,719 Speaker 3: she looked at. 209 00:14:17,720 --> 00:14:21,520 Speaker 7: Him and said, I am God's servant. I will gladly 210 00:14:21,600 --> 00:14:24,080 Speaker 7: receive his will according to what you've said. 211 00:14:24,880 --> 00:14:31,560 Speaker 3: And with anon, Gabriel vanished in a vapor. Mary stepped outside. 212 00:14:32,120 --> 00:14:35,920 Speaker 3: The sun was high in the sky. Mary basked in 213 00:14:35,960 --> 00:14:39,120 Speaker 3: its rays and looked around to see the village going 214 00:14:39,120 --> 00:14:43,400 Speaker 3: about its daily rhythm. She listened to the bird's whistle 215 00:14:43,480 --> 00:14:46,800 Speaker 3: along with a slight breeze. The dulness of the day 216 00:14:47,080 --> 00:14:52,040 Speaker 3: seemed to brighten up immensely. Mary's heart was beating fast. 217 00:14:52,480 --> 00:14:55,320 Speaker 3: She was still afraid of whatever may come, but she 218 00:14:55,440 --> 00:14:59,720 Speaker 3: knew in her bones that what Gabriel had said was true. 219 00:15:00,720 --> 00:15:04,400 Speaker 3: So Mary made arrangements to go visit her cousin Elizabeth 220 00:15:04,920 --> 00:15:09,960 Speaker 3: to see what God was doing. Mary traveled to the 221 00:15:10,000 --> 00:15:13,960 Speaker 3: outskirts of Jerusalem, into the town of Elizabeth from Zachariah. 222 00:15:14,840 --> 00:15:18,360 Speaker 3: She had not told anyone why she needed to visit Elizabeth. 223 00:15:19,080 --> 00:15:23,480 Speaker 3: She didn't quite understand how she would tell people, especially Joseph, 224 00:15:23,960 --> 00:15:27,600 Speaker 3: so she hoped in God and pondered everything in her heart. 225 00:15:28,560 --> 00:15:31,560 Speaker 3: Elizabeth was tending to the garden when she saw Mary 226 00:15:31,640 --> 00:15:35,160 Speaker 3: arrive on a small carriage. She looked up and waved. 227 00:15:35,360 --> 00:15:38,400 Speaker 3: She was over six months pregnant and beaming with joy. 228 00:15:39,160 --> 00:15:42,560 Speaker 3: Elizabeth made her way towards Mary, when all of a sudden, 229 00:15:42,640 --> 00:15:47,320 Speaker 3: she felt a jolt in her wound. Oh my, Elizabeth shouted, 230 00:15:47,680 --> 00:15:53,240 Speaker 3: is something wrong? Mary gasped with concern. Elizabeth laughed and 231 00:15:53,400 --> 00:15:57,800 Speaker 3: smiled ear to ear, exposing the aged cracks in her face. 232 00:16:00,200 --> 00:16:02,440 Speaker 3: Sweet Mary, Elizabeth said, with a. 233 00:16:02,400 --> 00:16:04,440 Speaker 7: Grin, you are with child. 234 00:16:05,120 --> 00:16:08,960 Speaker 3: Mary's heart skipped the beat. How did she know? Mary 235 00:16:09,080 --> 00:16:12,800 Speaker 3: was no more than a couple weeks pregnant? Shirley Gabriel 236 00:16:12,880 --> 00:16:15,760 Speaker 3: did not tell every one of her miraculous encounter. 237 00:16:16,400 --> 00:16:17,320 Speaker 7: H who told you that? 238 00:16:17,720 --> 00:16:22,920 Speaker 3: Mary asked, concerned that more people might have known, Elizabeth 239 00:16:22,960 --> 00:16:24,800 Speaker 3: took Mary's hands in hers. 240 00:16:24,840 --> 00:16:27,920 Speaker 7: My child, it is an honor that the mother of 241 00:16:28,000 --> 00:16:31,840 Speaker 7: the Lord himself should visit me. When you came close 242 00:16:31,960 --> 00:16:35,800 Speaker 7: the baby in my womb leapt for joy. He's kicking. 243 00:16:35,840 --> 00:16:39,240 Speaker 7: Now filled with the delight of God's spirit. 244 00:16:39,720 --> 00:16:43,080 Speaker 3: Elizabeth held Mary's face and kissed her forehead. 245 00:16:43,760 --> 00:16:48,480 Speaker 7: You are blessed, Mary. This is a burden, yes, but 246 00:16:48,680 --> 00:16:50,400 Speaker 7: so much good will come of this. 247 00:16:51,000 --> 00:16:55,479 Speaker 3: Mary embraced Elizabeth. It was a relief to feel understood. 248 00:16:56,040 --> 00:16:59,359 Speaker 3: She wondered if her family and Joseph would be as overjoyed. 249 00:17:00,040 --> 00:17:04,000 Speaker 3: Would they believe her, would they judge her, would Joseph 250 00:17:04,040 --> 00:17:08,480 Speaker 3: still love her? All these questions filled her mind, but 251 00:17:08,640 --> 00:17:12,679 Speaker 3: the Lord was steadfast towards Mary. He gave her a 252 00:17:12,760 --> 00:17:18,840 Speaker 3: quiet resolve to press forward. Mary remained with Elizabeth and 253 00:17:18,960 --> 00:17:23,720 Speaker 3: Zachariah for three months. She watched Elizabeth joyfully struggle through 254 00:17:23,720 --> 00:17:28,680 Speaker 3: pregnancy and Zachariah silently attend to her needs. Even though 255 00:17:28,760 --> 00:17:32,440 Speaker 3: Zachariah was unable to speak, his love for his wife 256 00:17:32,520 --> 00:17:36,280 Speaker 3: was shown in his tender care towards her. As the 257 00:17:36,320 --> 00:17:40,280 Speaker 3: pregnancy grew more and more burdensome, Mary would attend to 258 00:17:40,400 --> 00:17:45,280 Speaker 3: daily chores and tasks on her cousin's behalf. All the while, 259 00:17:45,680 --> 00:17:48,480 Speaker 3: a small round bump on the end of Mary's belly 260 00:17:48,600 --> 00:17:52,120 Speaker 3: was beginning to form. She knew that when she returned 261 00:17:52,119 --> 00:17:55,520 Speaker 3: to Nazareth, there would be no hiding what had happened. 262 00:17:58,080 --> 00:18:00,680 Speaker 3: The time had finally counted to Elizabeth to give birth. 263 00:18:01,440 --> 00:18:04,160 Speaker 3: The cries split the night of a bolt of lightnings. 264 00:18:04,920 --> 00:18:07,840 Speaker 3: Mary remained in the room with Elizabeth and the other women. 265 00:18:08,040 --> 00:18:13,080 Speaker 3: As she pushed, curled, kicked, and screamed. Mary saw strengthen 266 00:18:13,119 --> 00:18:16,880 Speaker 3: her despite all wage, and wondered if she too would 267 00:18:16,880 --> 00:18:20,880 Speaker 3: be that strong with the time came. Hours had passed, 268 00:18:21,160 --> 00:18:25,400 Speaker 3: but it was finally time. With great agony and determination, 269 00:18:25,880 --> 00:18:29,120 Speaker 3: she pushed the child through, and the dimly lit room 270 00:18:29,200 --> 00:18:32,600 Speaker 3: was filled with the lively cries of a new boy boy. 271 00:18:33,800 --> 00:18:38,400 Speaker 3: Elizabeth held her the boy in her arms. Tears streamed 272 00:18:38,440 --> 00:18:41,520 Speaker 3: on her face as she looked up over a miracle child. 273 00:18:42,359 --> 00:18:46,280 Speaker 7: We will name him Zachariah, after his father. 274 00:18:46,680 --> 00:18:51,960 Speaker 3: She whispered. Then, after nine months of silence, a deep 275 00:18:52,080 --> 00:18:57,080 Speaker 3: voice could be heard from the corner of the room. No, Zachariah, said, 276 00:18:58,040 --> 00:19:01,959 Speaker 3: Elizabeth gasped, as did Mary and the others with them. 277 00:19:02,320 --> 00:19:06,760 Speaker 3: Zechariah smiled and held up his boy. His name will 278 00:19:06,880 --> 00:19:12,040 Speaker 3: be John, he said. The old priest laughed and cried. 279 00:19:12,680 --> 00:19:16,680 Speaker 4: You, my little son, will be a prophet of the 280 00:19:16,840 --> 00:19:22,000 Speaker 4: most high. You will prepare the way of the Lord. 281 00:19:23,280 --> 00:19:28,200 Speaker 4: You will point people towards their salvation. You will show 282 00:19:28,440 --> 00:19:35,280 Speaker 4: them the way. You are a forerunner and chosen by God. 283 00:19:35,960 --> 00:19:39,920 Speaker 4: The morning light of Heaven is breaking on us this day. 284 00:19:41,680 --> 00:19:44,640 Speaker 3: Mary took a step outside and looked to the heavens. 285 00:19:45,200 --> 00:19:48,639 Speaker 3: Her heart was filled with gladness. She laid a gentle 286 00:19:48,680 --> 00:19:52,080 Speaker 3: hand on her belly and took a deep breath. She 287 00:19:52,240 --> 00:19:56,600 Speaker 3: was reminded of the story of Abraham, how God once 288 00:19:56,680 --> 00:20:00,640 Speaker 3: met him in the silence of the night. Abraham looked 289 00:20:00,720 --> 00:20:03,359 Speaker 3: up to see the expanse of space and all the 290 00:20:03,400 --> 00:20:08,680 Speaker 3: stars within. It was that night God promised Abraham that 291 00:20:08,840 --> 00:20:13,360 Speaker 3: through his seed all the nations shall be blessed. And 292 00:20:13,440 --> 00:20:17,440 Speaker 3: now under the same stars. Mary was holding within her 293 00:20:17,840 --> 00:20:19,480 Speaker 3: the answer to that promise. 294 00:20:20,119 --> 00:20:22,200 Speaker 7: My soul magnifies you. 295 00:20:22,440 --> 00:20:29,160 Speaker 3: Mary whispered. The cool breeze rustled the nearby bushes. Mary 296 00:20:29,280 --> 00:20:32,000 Speaker 3: kept her eyes fixed on the heavens above. 297 00:20:32,520 --> 00:20:36,480 Speaker 7: My spirit rejoices in my savior. He has looked at me, 298 00:20:36,920 --> 00:20:42,399 Speaker 7: this humble servant, and considered me. From now on, every 299 00:20:42,480 --> 00:20:44,640 Speaker 7: generation will call me blessed. 300 00:20:45,600 --> 00:20:49,360 Speaker 3: The wind picked up as Mary spoke, as if creation 301 00:20:49,680 --> 00:20:55,359 Speaker 3: itself was worshiping alongside her, Mary began singing to God. 302 00:20:55,840 --> 00:21:01,080 Speaker 8: His mercy has shown to those who fear him, and 303 00:21:01,200 --> 00:21:05,760 Speaker 8: he has shown strength to those who are proud. He 304 00:21:05,840 --> 00:21:11,200 Speaker 8: brings down the mighty from their thrones and exalts the humble. 305 00:21:12,440 --> 00:21:16,560 Speaker 8: He has satisfied the hungry and rushed to the rescue 306 00:21:16,600 --> 00:21:18,120 Speaker 8: of his people, Israel. 307 00:21:19,640 --> 00:21:24,560 Speaker 7: He has done what he promised to Abraham so long ago. 308 00:21:26,760 --> 00:21:30,440 Speaker 3: Mary closed her eyes and allowed the wind to kiss 309 00:21:30,480 --> 00:21:34,600 Speaker 3: her cheek. Then the next morning she departed back home. 310 00:21:36,600 --> 00:21:39,479 Speaker 3: It was noon and the blistering sun was hot against 311 00:21:39,560 --> 00:21:43,159 Speaker 3: Joseph's back. As he worked, the sound of chiseling against 312 00:21:43,200 --> 00:21:47,400 Speaker 3: stan was music to his ears. He loved being a craftsman. 313 00:21:47,800 --> 00:21:52,760 Speaker 3: He loved creating something that would be useful and blessed people. However, 314 00:21:53,240 --> 00:21:57,760 Speaker 3: this project was perhaps his finest. While Mary was away 315 00:21:58,080 --> 00:22:01,399 Speaker 3: helping her cousin, Joseph was working on their new home. 316 00:22:02,520 --> 00:22:05,439 Speaker 3: He laid the foundation of stone and dreamed about the 317 00:22:05,480 --> 00:22:08,600 Speaker 3: little pitter pattering of feet that would run across it. 318 00:22:09,440 --> 00:22:12,240 Speaker 3: He dreamed of holding Mary in his arms while he 319 00:22:12,320 --> 00:22:16,800 Speaker 3: watched his children play. Joseph was anxious for her return 320 00:22:17,160 --> 00:22:19,119 Speaker 3: and often looked to the road to see if she 321 00:22:19,119 --> 00:22:21,959 Speaker 3: would be returning on any of the carriages coming in 322 00:22:21,960 --> 00:22:26,520 Speaker 3: from the city. As Joseph took a break to drink 323 00:22:26,520 --> 00:22:29,360 Speaker 3: some water, he saw a small carriage in the distance. 324 00:22:30,119 --> 00:22:32,240 Speaker 3: He raised his hand to block the sun and get 325 00:22:32,240 --> 00:22:36,840 Speaker 3: a better view. It was her. Mary. Joseph dropped the 326 00:22:36,840 --> 00:22:39,280 Speaker 3: water skin and ran toward the carriage. 327 00:22:39,960 --> 00:22:42,400 Speaker 6: Just wait until she seized the beginning of our new home. 328 00:22:43,080 --> 00:22:46,320 Speaker 3: Joseph thought he couldn't help but smile as he ran. 329 00:22:46,800 --> 00:22:49,800 Speaker 3: He couldn't wait to see her face, hear her laugh, 330 00:22:50,200 --> 00:22:52,840 Speaker 3: and watch her grin as he showed her the beginning 331 00:22:52,960 --> 00:22:58,080 Speaker 3: of their new home, Mary, Joseph shouted. As Mary drew closer, 332 00:22:58,440 --> 00:23:02,920 Speaker 3: something seemed different about her. Joseph slowed down to get 333 00:23:02,920 --> 00:23:06,359 Speaker 3: a steady look at her belly. As clear as day, 334 00:23:06,960 --> 00:23:13,879 Speaker 3: a slight bump had formed. Joseph's smiled left him. The 335 00:23:13,960 --> 00:23:17,600 Speaker 3: carriage came to a stop, and Joseph helped Mary step down. 336 00:23:18,680 --> 00:23:21,240 Speaker 3: As the carriage rode away, the two of them stood 337 00:23:21,320 --> 00:23:28,000 Speaker 3: there in silence. Joseph's brow was furrowed, his eyes locked 338 00:23:28,240 --> 00:23:33,560 Speaker 3: on Mary's belly. Joseph, Mary said quietly, she tried getting 339 00:23:33,640 --> 00:23:36,400 Speaker 3: him to look at her, that his face was still. 340 00:23:36,560 --> 00:23:39,439 Speaker 7: Joseph, I know what it may look like, but this 341 00:23:39,640 --> 00:23:41,040 Speaker 7: is not what it seems. 342 00:23:41,440 --> 00:23:44,639 Speaker 3: At that point, Joseph's eyes darted up. They were filled 343 00:23:44,640 --> 00:23:46,280 Speaker 3: with betrayal and sorrow. 344 00:23:47,080 --> 00:23:48,640 Speaker 6: What did I do to deserve this. 345 00:23:49,280 --> 00:23:51,600 Speaker 3: Joseph asked with a trembling voice. 346 00:23:52,119 --> 00:23:55,359 Speaker 6: Have I not treated you with nothing but love and respect? 347 00:23:56,440 --> 00:23:58,560 Speaker 6: Have I not served your family and treated them as 348 00:23:58,560 --> 00:24:02,199 Speaker 6: my own? Have I not devoted myself to creating a 349 00:24:02,320 --> 00:24:03,080 Speaker 6: home for us? 350 00:24:03,880 --> 00:24:06,960 Speaker 3: Joseph pointed back to the foundation he had been working 351 00:24:06,960 --> 00:24:09,800 Speaker 3: on for their new home. He opened his arms and 352 00:24:09,840 --> 00:24:10,600 Speaker 3: shook his head. 353 00:24:11,680 --> 00:24:16,360 Speaker 6: Please, Mary, tell me why I deserve such betrayal. 354 00:24:16,960 --> 00:24:20,560 Speaker 3: Mary opened her mouth to speak, but was promptly stopped 355 00:24:20,720 --> 00:24:25,600 Speaker 3: as Joseph held up his hand. He sighed, holding back tears, 356 00:24:26,600 --> 00:24:28,359 Speaker 3: his eyes locked with hers. 357 00:24:29,040 --> 00:24:32,040 Speaker 6: She does not matter what you say. By law, I 358 00:24:32,080 --> 00:24:34,600 Speaker 6: have a right to stone you. I could drag you 359 00:24:34,640 --> 00:24:36,960 Speaker 6: out on the streets and allow people to shame you, 360 00:24:38,040 --> 00:24:41,120 Speaker 6: but I will not make you a spectacle. Your life 361 00:24:41,160 --> 00:24:44,880 Speaker 6: will be hard enough. Though my love for you remains, 362 00:24:45,400 --> 00:24:49,280 Speaker 6: I cannot marry you. We will call off our engagement 363 00:24:49,359 --> 00:24:52,399 Speaker 6: silently so that you may hide away with your family. 364 00:24:53,160 --> 00:24:56,600 Speaker 3: Joseph was a just man. He was a man of 365 00:24:56,680 --> 00:25:01,359 Speaker 3: principle courage and character wo not allow anyone to shame 366 00:25:01,480 --> 00:25:05,280 Speaker 3: Mary for one mistake. He loved her too much for that. 367 00:25:06,359 --> 00:25:09,880 Speaker 3: Yet he could not marry someone who could betray him 368 00:25:09,920 --> 00:25:13,639 Speaker 3: in such a way. So he departed from Mary and 369 00:25:13,840 --> 00:25:20,000 Speaker 3: pondered what his next steps might be. It was late 370 00:25:20,440 --> 00:25:23,200 Speaker 3: and Joseph was sitting under the stars on a hill 371 00:25:23,280 --> 00:25:27,280 Speaker 3: beside his home. The warm evening breeze made the grass 372 00:25:27,280 --> 00:25:31,320 Speaker 3: around him dance. He laid on his back, gazing up 373 00:25:31,320 --> 00:25:35,720 Speaker 3: at the sky, asking God for answers. He was raised 374 00:25:35,720 --> 00:25:38,760 Speaker 3: to believe, if he had been faithful, God would bless 375 00:25:38,840 --> 00:25:42,600 Speaker 3: him with the family. Joseph wrestled the bitterness out of 376 00:25:42,640 --> 00:25:47,280 Speaker 3: his mind. He loved Mary, he thought she loved him too. 377 00:25:47,760 --> 00:25:50,800 Speaker 6: Perhaps I should have listened to her. 378 00:25:50,920 --> 00:25:56,440 Speaker 3: He thought. Joseph sighed and closed his eyes. He allowed 379 00:25:56,440 --> 00:25:59,760 Speaker 3: his mind to wander and the soft breeze to rock 380 00:25:59,800 --> 00:26:01,240 Speaker 3: him into a deep sleep. 381 00:26:02,520 --> 00:26:03,240 Speaker 6: Son of David. 382 00:26:03,320 --> 00:26:07,240 Speaker 3: A voice called out to Joseph. Joseph looked round. It 383 00:26:07,400 --> 00:26:10,840 Speaker 3: was no longer in the field, but beside a stream. 384 00:26:11,080 --> 00:26:12,879 Speaker 6: Joseph, Son of David. 385 00:26:13,240 --> 00:26:16,840 Speaker 3: The voice called out again. Joseph looked up to see 386 00:26:17,080 --> 00:26:20,600 Speaker 3: an angel perched on a tree. Planted beside the water. 387 00:26:21,720 --> 00:26:24,320 Speaker 3: Joseph rose to his feet to get a better look. 388 00:26:25,119 --> 00:26:29,240 Speaker 3: It was a magnificent creature and somehow terrifying and friendly 389 00:26:29,280 --> 00:26:30,119 Speaker 3: at the same time. 390 00:26:31,400 --> 00:26:33,200 Speaker 6: Are you afraid, son of David? 391 00:26:33,720 --> 00:26:35,800 Speaker 3: The angel asked, afraid of what? 392 00:26:36,400 --> 00:26:39,080 Speaker 6: Joseph responded to take Mary as your wife? 393 00:26:39,240 --> 00:26:44,400 Speaker 3: The angel clarifying, are you afraid? Joseph nodded. The angel 394 00:26:44,480 --> 00:26:47,240 Speaker 3: leapt down from the tree and stood face to face 395 00:26:47,280 --> 00:26:51,560 Speaker 3: with Joseph. Don't be the angel said, matter of fact, man. 396 00:26:51,880 --> 00:26:55,680 Speaker 6: The baby is conceived from God's own spirit. She has 397 00:26:55,720 --> 00:26:59,480 Speaker 6: not betrayed you, Joseph. She has been called by God 398 00:26:59,520 --> 00:27:01,280 Speaker 6: to bear a great responsibility. 399 00:27:01,760 --> 00:27:04,960 Speaker 3: Joseph recalled Mary trying to convince him of such things, 400 00:27:05,640 --> 00:27:07,320 Speaker 3: and he was to hurt you. 401 00:27:07,480 --> 00:27:08,880 Speaker 6: Listen, what shall I do? 402 00:27:09,359 --> 00:27:11,080 Speaker 3: Joseph asked the angel, What. 403 00:27:11,000 --> 00:27:15,280 Speaker 6: Does this all have to do with me? You are chosen, Joseph. 404 00:27:15,600 --> 00:27:18,280 Speaker 6: You have been chosen by God to care for Mary 405 00:27:18,680 --> 00:27:22,600 Speaker 6: and the child. She will bear a son, and you 406 00:27:22,760 --> 00:27:24,800 Speaker 6: shall call his name Jesus. 407 00:27:25,760 --> 00:27:31,080 Speaker 3: Jesus, Joseph asked. He allowed himself to think for a moment. 408 00:27:31,640 --> 00:27:38,880 Speaker 3: The name Jesus means God saves. Joseph was beginning to understand. 409 00:27:38,880 --> 00:27:41,880 Speaker 6: He will save his people from their sins. Gabriel said, 410 00:27:42,280 --> 00:27:46,600 Speaker 6: recall the words of Isaiah. Behold, the Virgin shall conceive 411 00:27:47,280 --> 00:27:51,480 Speaker 6: and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel, 412 00:27:52,520 --> 00:27:55,840 Speaker 6: which means God with us Jesus. 413 00:27:56,240 --> 00:28:01,800 Speaker 3: Joseph repeated, God's promised deliverer, and he has chosen Mary 414 00:28:01,920 --> 00:28:06,080 Speaker 3: and I to raise him. Joseph looked up to ask 415 00:28:06,119 --> 00:28:10,520 Speaker 3: the angel more questions, but he had vanished. In that instant, 416 00:28:10,760 --> 00:28:14,760 Speaker 3: Joseph found himself awake again in the grass. The dawn 417 00:28:14,880 --> 00:28:19,480 Speaker 3: was beginning to break. Joseph's eyes widened, and an uncontrollable 418 00:28:19,520 --> 00:28:22,919 Speaker 3: grin swept over his face. As he watched the sunrise. 419 00:28:23,760 --> 00:28:26,920 Speaker 3: He put his hands through his hair and began to laugh. 420 00:28:27,240 --> 00:28:32,080 Speaker 3: God had chosen him. God had chosen Mary. Joseph thought 421 00:28:32,080 --> 00:28:35,560 Speaker 3: about Mary. He thought about how hard it would have 422 00:28:35,600 --> 00:28:39,480 Speaker 3: been to tell him all these things. Joseph sprang to 423 00:28:39,520 --> 00:28:42,960 Speaker 3: his feet and ran down the hill. He knew where 424 00:28:42,960 --> 00:28:47,840 Speaker 3: he would find her. Joseph ran down the dusty pathway 425 00:28:47,880 --> 00:28:51,440 Speaker 3: to the well, stumbling on the occasional hole in the ground. 426 00:28:52,720 --> 00:28:56,400 Speaker 3: There he saw the dark haired young woman playfully humming 427 00:28:56,720 --> 00:29:00,200 Speaker 3: as she drew water. She looked up from the well 428 00:29:00,360 --> 00:29:05,520 Speaker 3: to see Joseph. The two of them locked eyes. Joseph 429 00:29:05,520 --> 00:29:09,760 Speaker 3: stepped forward and embraced Mary, wrapping her in his arms. 430 00:29:10,440 --> 00:29:15,120 Speaker 3: They cried, laughed, and shared a moment of profound resolve. 431 00:29:16,080 --> 00:29:18,560 Speaker 3: They were going to be married so they might raise 432 00:29:18,720 --> 00:29:23,000 Speaker 3: and protect the promised seed of Abraham, the son of David, 433 00:29:23,360 --> 00:29:27,440 Speaker 3: the Prince of Peace, the savior of the world, and Manuel, 434 00:29:28,000 --> 00:29:29,520 Speaker 3: God's very own son. 435 00:29:30,560 --> 00:29:39,760 Speaker 2: Jesus Christ, I want you to put yourself in the 436 00:29:39,800 --> 00:29:43,000 Speaker 2: position of Abraham, looking at the stars and hearing from 437 00:29:43,000 --> 00:29:45,960 Speaker 2: the voice of God himself. Imagine that you are the 438 00:29:45,960 --> 00:29:49,240 Speaker 2: one sitting by the hillside with the evening breeze caressing 439 00:29:49,280 --> 00:29:52,000 Speaker 2: your cheek. He tells you that you have been chosen 440 00:29:52,040 --> 00:29:55,200 Speaker 2: to take part in the redemptive arc of humanity, and 441 00:29:55,240 --> 00:29:58,400 Speaker 2: that through you all the world will be blessed. If 442 00:29:58,400 --> 00:30:01,680 Speaker 2: it were me, I would be are while also terrified. 443 00:30:02,160 --> 00:30:04,800 Speaker 2: I would probably be honored that God would choose to 444 00:30:04,840 --> 00:30:09,400 Speaker 2: bless me, while also scared of the grand responsibility. Mary 445 00:30:09,400 --> 00:30:12,200 Speaker 2: can relate to Abraham in this way. She was chosen 446 00:30:12,240 --> 00:30:15,680 Speaker 2: to be blessed above all other people, but also carry 447 00:30:15,680 --> 00:30:19,600 Speaker 2: a great responsibility. Mary is an extension of the promise 448 00:30:19,640 --> 00:30:22,959 Speaker 2: made to Abraham Jesus will be the fulfillment of God's 449 00:30:23,000 --> 00:30:26,440 Speaker 2: great redemptive plan, and Mary is tied to that story forever. 450 00:30:27,240 --> 00:30:30,000 Speaker 2: Abraham and Mary have a lot in common. Actually, both 451 00:30:30,040 --> 00:30:33,480 Speaker 2: were chosen out of obscurity. There was nothing remarkable about 452 00:30:33,520 --> 00:30:36,560 Speaker 2: Abraham when he was chosen by God. There was no 453 00:30:36,640 --> 00:30:39,680 Speaker 2: defining features that made Abraham more worthy of the blessing 454 00:30:39,760 --> 00:30:43,760 Speaker 2: than others. God simply chose him because of his own will. 455 00:30:44,320 --> 00:30:46,720 Speaker 2: We aren't given any reason as to why Mary was 456 00:30:46,800 --> 00:30:50,400 Speaker 2: chosen over other women in her tribe. Her and her 457 00:30:50,400 --> 00:30:54,320 Speaker 2: fiance Joseph were both descendants of King David, but they 458 00:30:54,360 --> 00:30:57,800 Speaker 2: certainly weren't the only ones. We aren't given reasons why 459 00:30:57,880 --> 00:31:00,960 Speaker 2: Mary and Joseph were chosen for the same reason we 460 00:31:00,960 --> 00:31:04,680 Speaker 2: weren't given any for Abraham. It isn't about who you 461 00:31:04,840 --> 00:31:07,840 Speaker 2: are when God calls you. It's about who you become 462 00:31:08,080 --> 00:31:11,160 Speaker 2: when He calls you. Mary and Joseph will rise to 463 00:31:11,240 --> 00:31:13,960 Speaker 2: the occasion. The calling of God comes with the spirit 464 00:31:14,000 --> 00:31:16,680 Speaker 2: of God, and the spirit of God is all that 465 00:31:16,760 --> 00:31:19,480 Speaker 2: they need to accomplish the great task ahead of them. 466 00:31:20,200 --> 00:31:23,000 Speaker 2: The beginning of the episode gave us the context of 467 00:31:23,080 --> 00:31:26,320 Speaker 2: Jesus's life, Mary and Joseph were members of a humble 468 00:31:26,320 --> 00:31:31,080 Speaker 2: town called Nazareth, where nothing particularly remarkabile ever happen. Later 469 00:31:31,160 --> 00:31:33,600 Speaker 2: on in the series, we will meet a young man 470 00:31:33,680 --> 00:31:36,920 Speaker 2: named Nathaniel who will become a member of the Twelve. 471 00:31:37,640 --> 00:31:40,520 Speaker 2: When he has told Jesus is from Nazaus, he scoffs 472 00:31:40,560 --> 00:31:44,800 Speaker 2: and says, Nazareth, can any good come from there? As 473 00:31:44,840 --> 00:31:49,239 Speaker 2: it turns out, something very good came from Nazareus. The 474 00:31:49,280 --> 00:31:52,640 Speaker 2: backdrop of our story reminds us that extraordinary things can 475 00:31:52,680 --> 00:31:57,000 Speaker 2: come from ordinary places. Whatever mundane or bland place we 476 00:31:57,040 --> 00:32:02,360 Speaker 2: find ourselves in, there will always be potential for something remarkable. Oftentimes, 477 00:32:02,600 --> 00:32:05,920 Speaker 2: God works within the monotonous and ordinary routines and slowly 478 00:32:05,960 --> 00:32:09,960 Speaker 2: builds something spectacular over time. But there are other times 479 00:32:10,160 --> 00:32:14,240 Speaker 2: when God interrupts our passionless patterns with his spirit, sending 480 00:32:14,320 --> 00:32:18,000 Speaker 2: a media crashing down on our boring lives. He calls 481 00:32:18,080 --> 00:32:21,320 Speaker 2: us to adventure, like he called Mary, Joseph, and Abraham, 482 00:32:21,840 --> 00:32:26,040 Speaker 2: and we have the choice to respond. Mary's mundane routine 483 00:32:26,160 --> 00:32:29,360 Speaker 2: was interrupted by the presence of the angel Gabriel. The 484 00:32:29,440 --> 00:32:33,320 Speaker 2: angelic creature perched himself in her room and called her blessed. 485 00:32:33,840 --> 00:32:37,080 Speaker 2: He relayed God's calling that would change her life forever. 486 00:32:37,760 --> 00:32:42,040 Speaker 2: Mary's reaction was rather poised when you consider the circumstances. 487 00:32:42,560 --> 00:32:45,200 Speaker 2: There was a lot on the line for Mary. Put 488 00:32:45,200 --> 00:32:49,200 Speaker 2: aside the existential responsibility of bearing God's Messiah in your 489 00:32:49,240 --> 00:32:53,160 Speaker 2: womb and think about the immediate inconvenience. She has to 490 00:32:53,200 --> 00:32:55,760 Speaker 2: explain this to people, knowing that many of them won't 491 00:32:55,760 --> 00:33:00,080 Speaker 2: believe her, including her fiancee. Mary's destiny comes at a 492 00:33:00,120 --> 00:33:04,400 Speaker 2: cost to herself. A constant theme in the Gospels is destiny. 493 00:33:04,880 --> 00:33:08,080 Speaker 2: Christians refer to it as a calling, but the sentiment 494 00:33:08,240 --> 00:33:11,080 Speaker 2: is the same. We all want to feel like we 495 00:33:11,160 --> 00:33:14,640 Speaker 2: are destined for something great, called a higher purpose, but 496 00:33:14,680 --> 00:33:17,920 Speaker 2: the calling of God often comes at a cost to us. 497 00:33:18,200 --> 00:33:21,320 Speaker 2: If you think about it, our calling is similar to Mary's. 498 00:33:21,800 --> 00:33:24,480 Speaker 2: We are all asked to host God within us and 499 00:33:24,560 --> 00:33:27,680 Speaker 2: embrace the calling that comes with it. We might have 500 00:33:27,760 --> 00:33:30,920 Speaker 2: to make tough decisions and face hardship to follow God's calling. 501 00:33:31,320 --> 00:33:34,320 Speaker 2: Rest assured, what we gain in Jesus outweighs what we 502 00:33:34,400 --> 00:33:37,680 Speaker 2: lose in the world. Jesus will later on say, if 503 00:33:37,720 --> 00:33:41,440 Speaker 2: anyone would come after me, let him deny himself, take 504 00:33:41,520 --> 00:33:44,160 Speaker 2: up his cross and follow me. This is one of 505 00:33:44,240 --> 00:33:50,040 Speaker 2: the great principles of scripture. Greatness requires sacrifice, Glory requires surrender, 506 00:33:50,440 --> 00:33:55,080 Speaker 2: Heaven requires humility. Mary embraced her calling with dignity, but 507 00:33:55,200 --> 00:33:59,040 Speaker 2: with Joseph, Oh, poor Joseph, we can't help but feel 508 00:33:59,040 --> 00:34:01,520 Speaker 2: sorry for him. At first, we know that Mary is 509 00:34:01,560 --> 00:34:04,560 Speaker 2: carrying the Lord's child, but how is he supposed to 510 00:34:04,680 --> 00:34:07,880 Speaker 2: process that and take it at face value? Would you 511 00:34:07,920 --> 00:34:11,360 Speaker 2: take this story seriously at first? Of course not. It 512 00:34:11,400 --> 00:34:14,319 Speaker 2: would take divine intervention to prove a miracle like this. 513 00:34:14,960 --> 00:34:18,200 Speaker 2: Before Gabriel comes to visit him in a dream, Joseph 514 00:34:18,280 --> 00:34:22,320 Speaker 2: determines to divorce Mary secretly. By Jewish law and tradition, 515 00:34:22,719 --> 00:34:25,440 Speaker 2: he had every right to stone her in the public square, 516 00:34:25,800 --> 00:34:29,279 Speaker 2: but he was far too kind for that kindness. There's 517 00:34:29,320 --> 00:34:32,600 Speaker 2: a word that many men don't like to embody. The 518 00:34:32,640 --> 00:34:36,080 Speaker 2: brutality of history and conquest tells us that nice guys 519 00:34:36,160 --> 00:34:39,520 Speaker 2: typically finish last. But the Bible does its best to 520 00:34:39,520 --> 00:34:43,600 Speaker 2: instill a different value system. In the ancient world, greatness 521 00:34:43,719 --> 00:34:46,839 Speaker 2: was shown in strength and an ability to assert your 522 00:34:46,880 --> 00:34:51,200 Speaker 2: will over others. It wasn't untel Judeo Christian influence that 523 00:34:51,239 --> 00:34:54,480 Speaker 2: the tide begin to shift. Being merciful and humble all 524 00:34:54,520 --> 00:34:57,640 Speaker 2: of a sudden, became greater virtues than strength and pride. 525 00:34:58,160 --> 00:35:01,800 Speaker 2: Frederic Nietzsche observed this shif due to Christianity and sought 526 00:35:01,840 --> 00:35:05,080 Speaker 2: to decry it. He said it replaced strength for weakness, 527 00:35:05,360 --> 00:35:09,000 Speaker 2: but valuing kindness has been a force for good in history. 528 00:35:09,560 --> 00:35:12,520 Speaker 2: Joseph could have asserted his force over Mary and punished her, 529 00:35:12,600 --> 00:35:16,279 Speaker 2: but instead he showed kindness. This gave room for the 530 00:35:16,360 --> 00:35:19,680 Speaker 2: voice of God to speak in his life. Joseph showing 531 00:35:19,760 --> 00:35:23,240 Speaker 2: mercy to Mary gives us flashbacks to all the times 532 00:35:23,320 --> 00:35:27,360 Speaker 2: David showed mercy when it could have shown vengeance. Joseph 533 00:35:27,440 --> 00:35:30,799 Speaker 2: truly was a son of David, and Joseph eventually came 534 00:35:30,840 --> 00:35:34,600 Speaker 2: around he realized what was about to unfold. He and 535 00:35:34,680 --> 00:35:37,600 Speaker 2: Mary were chosen to bear a heavy burden. They were 536 00:35:37,640 --> 00:35:41,560 Speaker 2: going to steward God's chosen hero. They would nurse him, 537 00:35:42,040 --> 00:35:45,239 Speaker 2: change him, teach him, and protect him, all for the 538 00:35:45,280 --> 00:35:49,320 Speaker 2: purpose of being given up as a sacrifice. What wild 539 00:35:49,360 --> 00:35:52,920 Speaker 2: and spectacular things lie ahead for them. I am excited 540 00:35:52,960 --> 00:35:56,320 Speaker 2: to continue this series with you. In our next episode, 541 00:35:56,640 --> 00:35:59,839 Speaker 2: Mary and Joseph will make the journey to Bethlehem, where 542 00:35:59,840 --> 00:36:02,719 Speaker 2: the King of the universe will humble himself in the 543 00:36:02,760 --> 00:36:06,800 Speaker 2: warmth of a manger. Join us for episode three. God 544 00:36:07,040 --> 00:36:11,239 Speaker 2: with Us. Thank you again for listening. For more inspiring stories, 545 00:36:11,400 --> 00:36:15,040 Speaker 2: daily prayers and wisdom to last a lifetime, go to 546 00:36:15,120 --> 00:36:18,520 Speaker 2: pray dot com. And to expand your heroes in the 547 00:36:18,600 --> 00:36:23,439 Speaker 2: Bible Journey, download the Heroes of the Faith devotional at 548 00:36:23,480 --> 00:36:28,360 Speaker 2: Tonyevans dot org Forward slash Heroes. Follow the podcast on 549 00:36:28,480 --> 00:36:32,239 Speaker 2: Apple or Spotify to get the newest episodes right as 550 00:36:32,280 --> 00:36:36,040 Speaker 2: they come out, and always be inspired by the Bible. 551 00:36:36,440 --> 00:36:37,160 Speaker 2: God bless