Who was Mary?
Who was Mary?
Introduction
Mary was a young Jewish woman from Nazareth who lived during the first century. She was engaged to be married to Joseph.
Character & Role
God chose Mary to be the mother of Jesus. Outlined here are several admirable characteristics of Mary and her role in Jesus’ life:
1. Highly favored by God
The angel Gabriel greeted her as one who was highly favored (Luke 1:28) because the Lord by his divine grace had selected and prepared her for the unique role as the earthly mother of Jesus.
2. Woman of Faith
Mary was a woman of deep faith. When the angel Gabriel announced that she would bear the Son of God, despite the potential social repercussions of being an unwed mother in her culture, she responded with acceptance and trust in God’s plan (Luke 1:38).
3. Obedience & Humility
Many devout Jews during Mary’s time were eagerly waiting for the Messiah. Mary’s response to the angel Gabriel, often referred to as the Magnificat (Luke 1:46-55), reflects her humility and recognition of her role in God’s plan. She acknowledges her humble state and glorifies God for choosing her.
4. Strength & Resilience
Mary responded to her call with obedience, but it was not an easy road for her. She faced potential ostracism and hardship as an unwed mother, journeyed to Bethlehem in the late stages of pregnancy, and endured the hardship of Jesus’ birth in a manger. Later, she witnessed the crucifixion of Jesus, a profoundly painful experience for any mother. In the face of all this, Mary displayed remarkable strength and resilience.
5. Wisdom & Understanding
Mary is seen as a figure of wisdom and understanding. On hearing the greeting from the angel Gabriel, she tried to discern what kind of greeting that might be. She was not one to take things at face value, she sought the deeper meaning. She pondered the events surrounding Jesus’ life deeply in her heart (Luke 2:19, 51), indicating a contemplative and discerning nature.
6. Caring Mother
As the earthly mother of Jesus, Mary was his nurturer and caregiver till he grew independent. We also see Mary express deep concern and relief upon finding Jesus, who had stayed back at the Temple during their annual trip to Jerusalem (Luke 2:48).
7. Devoted Follower
Mary’s belief in Jesus and her devotion to him as deity are subtly indicated through the various New Testament narratives. It starts with Mary’s acceptance of the divine conception through her, which shows her recognition of God’s plan to birth the Messiah through her. Mary was also present during key events of Jesus life. During his first miracle at Cana (John 2:1-11), Mary’s instruction to the servants, “Do whatever he tells you,” indicates her belief in his divine authority and ability to perform miracles. As a faithful follower, Mary was present at the crucifixion during his ultimate sacrifice on the cross. Acts 1:14 show her continued devotion after the ascension of Jesus, as she joins together with other believers in prayer.
Conclusion
Mary leaves behind the legacy of a life modeled with faith, humility, and obedience. Her journey from an unknown humble maiden to the honored mother of Jesus is an inspiration to countless around the world.
