Luke 2:33 says that "Joseph and his other marveled at those things which were spoken of him." "Marvelous" is a good word to describe what it was like to have the incarnate Son of God for a child to raise. The events of His conception, birth, and first years (mentioned in Matthew 1:18 - 2:23; Luke 1:26 - 2:20) certainly would create wonder and awe! These are more than just curious or unusual circumstances. These are life-changing events with consequences that reach beyond the fate of the nation and unto the fate of the world; consequences that transcend time, affecting the rest of eternity. God's choice of a young virgin girl to be the mother of the incarnate Son of God (not the mother of God) is the subject of our study.

What qualities were in Mary, that God would give her this great privilege and responsibility? How can she be a model for other mothers? It is to be noted that twice Mary is called "favored" or "blessed among women" (Luke 1:28, 42). Certainly, the virtues taught in Proverbs 31:10-31 could be applied to Mary. This lesson will focus on three things, as seen in the first two chapters of Luke.

Mary had a soul with child-like faith. (Luke 1:26-38)

• She was naturally surprised and troubled by an unexpected angelic visit. (Luke 1:26-29).
• She understandably had questions concerning a supernatural conception. (Luke 1:30-34)
• She amazingly believed what she was told and submitted to the will of God. (Luke 1:35-38… contrasted by the unbelief of her relative, Zacharias in Luke 1:5-20)

This mother's faith was challenged and she rose to that challenge without doubt or wavering. God was calling her to a level of attention that was higher than most mothers. She would be misunderstood by her fiancé as well as others in the community (pregnant before marriage!!!). Yet, without a complaint she submitted to what God had called her to do. Raising children for the Lord will make you walk a different path. Sometimes you will not be understood by your peers. Will you accept this with child-like faith? See II Timothy 1:5.

Mary had a soul with a godly perspective. (Luke 1:39-56)

• She knew that God was working in Elizabeth's life, too (Luke 1:36). So, she sought her out for encouragement and fellowship. (Luke 1:39-45)
• She focused, not on herself (privileges or problems), but rather the glory and goodness of the Lord. (Luke 1:46-47)
• She saw herself as an instrument of God's use. What God was doing would bless all of mankind. She felt honored to have such a purpose in life. (Luke 1:48-49)
• She had a deep and reverent knowledge of God through the Scriptures. She sought spiritual fellowship with others at a deep level, fellowshipping with Elizabeth about three months. (Luke 1:50-56)

This mother's perspective did not put her in the center of attention. She knew the importance of her place in life, but what mattered most was God's greater purposes in life. She surrounded herself with people of faith, so that she could stay encouraged with a godly point-of-view. Will you seek this perspective? See Titus 2:1-5.

Mary had a soul that would bear grief and pain. (Luke 2:25-52)

• She was careful to note and remember things said about her child, as well as things said by her child. (Luke 2:18-19, 33, 34-38, 41-51 especially 47-51)
• She was preparing to suffer many sorrows, as the Lord would take control and use her son to do many difficult things. (Luke 2:34-35)
• She would not be the center of attention in her son's life. She would not be in control, as her son's ministry would launch publicly. She would have to observe her son suffer and sacrifice Himself in God's service. He would increasingly behave as her Lord, more than as her son that she raised. (John 2:1-4; Matthew 12:46-50; John19:25)

This mother had to receive joy and sorrow, bearing the burdens of what her child would experience and accomplish. It would feel like a sword going through her soul (Luke 2:35). Though loving him with all her heart, she had to give her son to God, who had first given Him to her. Will you trust God with your children? See Job 1:18-22; 2:9-10; 13:15.

Note: Jesus remained aware of his dear mother and always loved her. Even while taking on the sin of the world and enduring the mockery of men, Jesus thought of his mother and provided for her needs (John 19:26-27). Will you calmly look for the loving care of the Lord, even though you are suffering? See II Corinthians 1:3-5.