Mary was a young woman living in Nazareth, engaged to be married to Joseph, a descendant of King David. One day, the angel Gabriel appeared to her and said, “Greetings, Mary. You have found favor with God.”

Mary was troubled by the angel’s words, but Gabriel reassured her. “Do not be afraid. You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call Him Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. His kingdom will never end.”

Mary asked, “How can this be, since I am a virgin?”

Gabriel explained that the Holy Spirit would come upon her and that the child would be the Son of God. He reminded her that nothing is impossible with God.

Though she did not fully understand what lay ahead, Mary responded with faith and humility: “I am the Lord’s servant. May it be to me according to your word.”

Soon afterward, Mary visited her relative Elizabeth. As soon as Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, she was filled with the Holy Spirit and joyfully declared, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear!”

Mary responded with praise, thanking God for His goodness, faithfulness, and mercy. Though chosen for an extraordinary purpose, she remained humble and trusted God’s plan for her life.

In God’s perfect time, Mary gave birth to Jesus, the promised Savior of the world.