Does anyone remember what a “hope chest” is? Years ago girls kept large cedar storage boxes to hold crocheted doilies, embroidered pillow cases, sewn tablecloths, etc. For their homes one day. The tradition has faded, but I know there is still much anticipation among brides-and-grooms-to- be as they plan their weddings. In Bible times it was probably the same. Perhaps Mary longed for a future time when she’d be a bride.
The angel’s sudden entry into her life vastly changed any plans she may have had. She became God’s willing instrument. “‘I am the Lord’s servant,’ Mary answered. ‘May it be to me as you have said’” (Luke 1:38). God’s plans affected her reputation, her whole life, and her future.
Have your priorities had to be rearranged? Are you facing a circumstance where you must decide if you will say that you are the Lord’s servant or not? Consider Jesus’ perfect life offered for us. If He could pray before going to the cross, “not my will, but yours be done” (Luke 22:42), may we also submit willingly in our lives to Him.