THE SOULS OF ADVENT

THE CALLING BY PASTOR VALARIE SAUNDERS

This powerful exploration of Mary's calling invites us into one of the most profound mysteries of our faith: the virgin birth and the incarnation of Jesus Christ. We journey through Mary's story from the announcement by Gabriel to her beautiful song of praise, the Magnificat. What stands out is Mary's extraordinary humility and obedience. Here was a young Jewish girl, probably only 14–16 years old, from a poor rural town, who said, “yes,” to God despite the enormous risks. She could have been stoned to death for being pregnant outside of marriage, yet she trusted completely.

The sermon carefully establishes the theological necessity of the virgin birth, showing us that if Mary wasn't truly a virgin overshadowed by the Holy Spirit, then Jesus couldn't have been the spotless Lamb who died for our sins. This isn't just ancient history; it's the foundation of our salvation. We see Mary's faith contrasted with Zachariah's doubt, her immediate obedience compared to our own hesitations.

The ten lessons drawn from Mary's life speak directly to us today:

1. Obey the Lord always and have no doubt.

2. Have no fear. When God is asking you to do something, have no fear. Perfect love casts out all fear.

3. Say yes and amen, so be it, to the Lord.

4. God exalts those who remain humble. Don’t think too highly of yourself (Rom 12:3).

5. God takes care of the down and out.

6. The Lord can be trusted.

7. God is more intimately involved in our lives than we think, whether we’re aware or not.

8. If you have Eternal Life, you are blessed and highly favored.

9. Only Jesus is the Savior of the world.

10. Nothing is impossible with God.

    “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.

    In all your ways submit to him and he will make your path straight.”—Prov 3:5–6