Every Christmas, I find myself drawn back to the story of Mary, the mother of Jesus. Amid all the lights, decorations and celebrations, her story stands out - a story of emotional honesty, faith, courage, humble submission and trust in God. Mary was a young lady living a quiet life in a place called Nazareth.

An Extraordinary Message
Luke 1:30-31 tells us that one day, an angel appeared to her and said:
‘Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favour with God.
You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus.”
Humanly speaking, the announcement was extraordinary - unimaginable even. How can a virgin conceive and give birth to a child? There are times when life will bring unexpected messages, challenges and moments that leave us confounded and overwhelmed. The angel’s message reminds us that God often calls us to step beyond our comfort, inviting us into a story of hope, purpose and divine love - if only we choose to listen with trust and obedience.

Mary’s Response to the Angel’s Message
Mary’s reaction was a mixture of wonder and confusion when she asked the angel,
“How will this be, since I am a virgin?”
After the angel explained how it would happen, she responded with humble surrender;
“I am the Lord’s servant. May your word to me be fulfilled.”

Timeless Lessons from the Story of Mary
Mary’s response teaches us enduring lessons:
Emotional Honesty
Mary listened, reflected on the angel’s message and was emotionally honest by seeking clarification. Mary could have been overcome by anxiety, just as many of us do during Christmas, but she didn’t. She did not hide her confusion or pretend to be unfazed. She asked from the sincerity of her heart, “How will this be?” This teaches us that faith does not mean denial or suppressing anxiety. It is okay to ask God “how” or “why” with a sincere heart when we feel overwhelmed. Faith doesn’t require pretending everything makes sense when they don’t. Faith creates room for mystery and still chooses trust.
Today, people become anxious for many reasons - financial pressures, family expectations, holiday busyness, loneliness and the fear of not measuring up. If we are grappling with any form of anxiety or fear in this season, let us be honest about it and seek help from the right place.

Trust and Humble Submission
By saying, “I am the Lord’s servant. May your word to me be fulfilled,” Mary shows a mature spiritual pattern – surrender to God’s will in trust and humility. She could have doubted her own ability to bear such responsibility or feared the judgment of others. Like Mary, when we choose to trust God’s word and lean on faith rather than fear, we open ourselves to becoming part of something greater than we could ever imagine. This Christmas, let Mary’s story us to respond with faith, humility and courage, even in moments of fear and uncertainty.

The Journey of Faith
Mary’s journey of faith was not easy. It reveals several deep truths about walking with God. Faith often begins with surprise or disruption. God’s call may interrupt our normal lives - just like Mary’s ordinary day was suddenly transformed by divine purpose. Faith doesn’t require us to have all the answers. It invites us to trust the One who does as we continue to dwell on His word. Mary didn’t understand all the implications - yet she surrendered. Faith is saying “yes” even when the road ahead is unclear. Her personal obedience became part of God’s global redemption plan.
Travelling to Bethlehem, finding no room at the inn and giving birth in a humble stable - it could have been discouraging. Yet, she endured. In that simplicity and obedience, God’s extraordinary plan unfolded. Mary’s baby became a symbol of hope for all generations. She became the mother of Jesus, Saviour of the world.

Mary’s story reminds me - and I hope it reminds you too - that God works through ordinary lives. He works through humble people, to bring light into the world. This Christmas, I invite you to reflect:
In what areas is God asking you to trust Him?
What ordinary moments in your life could become the stage for something extraordinary?
How does Mary’s courage inspire you this season?

Have you experienced moments where faith and trust turned a challenge into a blessing?
Share your reflections in the comments section - I believe we can all learn from each other’s stories of faith, hope and love.
Do have a blessed Christmas celebration!!