Mary’s example of faith comes in juxtaposition with the preceding example in verses 18-20. When Zechariah was told that his old wife would have a child, he immediately cast doubt, though an angelic messenger was personally delivering the message. Contrast this not only with Mary’s faith, but also with the more outlandish nature of the angel’s claims…

• You, a virgin, will have a child (31,34)
• Your child will be the Son of God (32,35)
• Your child will rule the universe (32-33)
• A similar scenario is already happening with your barren relative, Elizabeth (36)
• Nothing will be impossible with God (37)

Now (unlike Zechariah), consider Mary’s response…

“Behold the bondservant of the Lord; may it be done to me according to your word” (38)

God asked her to be ready for the impossible, and she answered in a few ways that are worth emulating. This is the meat of worship and obedience that I want to fasten my soul onto…

1. She humbled herself before God (“Behold the bondservant of the Lord”)
2. She obeyed God immediately (“may it be done to me”)
3. She put her faith in the promises of God (“…according to your word”)
4. She began looking for confirmation from other Spirit-filled friends (“Now at this time Mary arose and went in a hurry to…Elizabeth. And [Elizabeth] cried out with a loud voice and said,  ’Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb!’” v39-40,42)
5. She worshipped God (“And Mary said: ‘My soul exalts the Lord’” v46)

The Highly Favored lady is but a recipient of God’s grace who chose to respond in obedience in worship. I pray that I would be this crazy with God’s promises to me.