October 17

The angel appeared to her and said, “Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.” — Luke 1:28 BSB

Motherhood is always a sacred privilege. To be the mother of any child is a holy calling. But to be the mother of Jesus Christ, the Savior of the world, was the highest honor ever given to a woman.

Mary was truly blessed among women. When God needs a great man for a special mission, He first chooses a noble woman to be his mother, placing in her the qualities necessary for her sacred role. It’s often said that behind every great man is a good mother.

The woman chosen to be Jesus’ mother must have been divinely equipped for her task. No wonder the angel greeted her with the words, “Hail, you who are highly favored, the Lord is with you.”

Mary’s response to the angel’s announcement is beautiful: “I am the Lord’s servant. May it be to me as you have said.” Though awed by the message, she accepted it with humility.