Sunday Sermon Summary – Dec 24 2023

The chosen ones: Angel Gabriel and Mary

Luke 1: 26-38

 Angel Gabriel visited the virgin Mary at her house and informed her that she will conceive and bear a child who will be the Saviour of the world.  

1. God Chooses : Luke 1: 26, 27

When Mary heard the greetings from the angel; she was pondering about it.  It was a big surprise to her that she was chosen to bear the Saviour of the world.  

God chooses each one of us to fulfill various purposes. Each one’s call is unique. It may seem surprising to realize that God trusts us for great responsibilities.  God sees the heart not the countenance. So in his sovereign wisdom he chose Mary to bear the Son of God. 

2. ⁠God Conveys : Luke 1: 28

When God chooses a person, he always makes it clear to them. When God chooses to appoint you for a task, he will reveal his calling to you in various ways. For Mary, God conveyed his choosing through angel Gabriel. For Joseph the angel spoke to him in a dream.  God will reveal his calling to you.  When your ways are pleasing to God, his voice will be clear.  He will reveal his will for your life. 

His call may seem unreal; but his call will always have a great meaning.  It will be revealed as we follow him faithfully.  

3. ⁠God Confirms : Luke 1: 37

The confirmation for Mary came when the angel said, “For nothing will be impossible with God.”  On hearing that Mary surrendered to God’s will.  She never worried about what others may say about her. She joyfully went to visit her cousin Elizabeth and stayed with her for three months and then returned. She knew that God will take care of everything that concerns her. 

She wholeheartedly accepted her call to be the mother of Jesus Christ. She said, “Now onwards everyone will call me blessed.”  When we are willing to surrender to God’s will, we can be most assured that we will be a blessing to many. 

May our Lord help us to be truthful to our calling and to be a blessing to many.  Amen