The holidays are approaching quickly, and I wanted to take this opportunity to be the first to address what is usually thought of as a Christmas passage. But this blog is NOT about Christmas.
In Luke 1:28, we are told that Gabriel appeared to Mary, the mother of Jesus, and said to her: “Rejoice, beloved young woman, for the Lord is with you and you are anointed with great favor.” This declaration not only marked a pivotal moment in history but also serves as a reminder of our identity in Christ. Just as Mary was chosen and favored by God, so too are we. You and I, like Mary, are blessed and highly favored. Let’s dive into this truth through three key points.
Our true identity is rooted in who we are in Christ. Ephesians 1:4-5 tells us, “For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In love he predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will.” Let that sink in. “…He chose us (when did He choose us?) BEFORE He laid the foundation of the universe!” Just as Mary was chosen for a divine purpose, we too have been chosen and adopted into God’s family. This identity is not based on our performance or worthiness. It couldn’t be. It was done before He laid the foundation of the universe. Our identity was based on God’s grace and His deep abiding love for us. When we understand our identity, we can walk confidently in the favor of God.
Mary was not only favored but also blessed. In Luke 1:42, Elizabeth declares, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear!” We must recognize that we are blessed in Christ. Ephesians 1:3 states, “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ.” These blessings include (among many others) peace, joy, and the assurance of salvation. When we embrace and understand our blessings, we can easily share them with others, helping them to see their own worth and favor in God’s eyes.
As recipients of God’s favor, we are called to extend that favor to others. In 2 Corinthians 1:4, Paul writes, “who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble.” Just as Mary was a vessel for God’s plan, we too are vessels of His love and grace. By encouraging others and helping them recognize their identity in Christ, we can lead them to understand that they are also blessed and highly favored. Our actions and words can reflect the heart of God, drawing others to know their true identity.
To wrap up, let’s remember that our identity in Christ is one of being blessed and highly favored. Just as Mary was chosen for a divine purpose, so are we. We have been blessed with every spiritual blessing and are called to share that blessing with others. May we help those around us see their worth and favor in God’s eyes.
We want to thank Di Zeigler for sharing this post.
Women's Ministry 