by David Chadwick Mary. Cousin to Elizabeth. Betrothed to Joseph. Visited by the angel Gabriel. While she wore many hats, the most important one was this: Mary, mother of Jesus! After Gabriel visited Mary, she became aware of the divine conception that would take place in her womb. She also found out that her formerly barren cousin, Elizabeth, was now with child. The story of Mary is full of faith, hope, and wonder. Threaded throughout Mary's life is a strong and fervent belief that with God, nothing is impossible! In fact, these were Gabriel's last words to Mary (Luke 1:37). Take a moment to break down this verse with me today. It starts with these two words: "for nothing." As I often joke, I looked up nothing in the dictionary. Guess what it means? Nothing. Not a single thing. Then comes that word "impossible." Did you know there is not one single hurdle, roadblock, or setback that is impossible for the Lord? The next two words are also very important: with God. Communion with the Father. A life of abiding. Perfect union with the God of creation. The Savior of the world was ushered in on a foundation of faith and a life deeply connected to the Father. What a firm foundation! This theme of faith is found throughout the Bible. Do you remember Sarah? After 25 years of waiting for a promised son, she was told that one year later she would finally have a son (Genesis 18:14). Then in Jeremiah 32:17, we are told that nothing is beyond the power of our God who created the heavens and the earth. Consider Jesus's own words in Matthew 19:26: "But Jesus looked at them and said, 'With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible."' Meditate on Ephesians 3:20-21: "Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen." We should contemplate these truths today and forever. Whatever you are facing, consider Sarah, consider Jeremiah. Meditate on Scripture that strengthens your faith. Now consider again this beautiful story of Mary. And remember that with God, nothing is impossible. Just as Mary did, let us all contemplate these last words for our lives today as well. Nothing is impossible for God.
