Nothing is Impossible! - December 14th, 2011

³⁵ And the angel answered and said to her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Highest will overshadow you; therefore, also, that Holy One who is to be born will be called the Son of God. ³⁶ Now indeed, Elizabeth your relative has also conceived a son in her old age; and this is now the sixth month for her who was called barren. ³⁷ For with God nothing will be impossible.”
³⁸ Then Mary said, “Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her.

Luke 1:35-38

History and Context:

Of the four Gospels, Luke gives us the most thorough account of the life of Jesus. Luke was a doctor, an educated man, who was careful to study out all writings and testimonies (most likely using Mark as a main source) and compiled an accurate account of the life of Jesus. He addressed his letter to Theophilus, a roman, although it is still debated whether this was a real name or simply a representative of the church as a whole. Theophilus simply means "friend of God" so many historians believe that Luke was using the name to address all of "God's friends". As Matthew seemed to emphasize the royalty of Christ and Mark seemed to emphasize His power, Luke seems to emphasize the love and compassion of Christ. Although there are some historical points of Luke's Gospel which are still debated, archaeology has generally proved him to be an accurate historian.

The Text:

Here the angel Gabriel is announcing to Mary that she will become pregnant and give birth to the Son of God. We all know the story, that Mary was a virgin and was engaged to Joseph and became impregnated by the Holy Spirit. Of course at first Mary questioned how it could happen but when the Angel assured her that it would happen through the Spirit of God and that with God all things are possible, Mary immediately believed and said "let it be..." Think about the amazing faith that would take! 

The Challenge:

As we approach this holiday season let us remember this statement, "with God nothing is impossible"! No matter what situation you might be in God is able to bring you out of it. No matter what you desire to happen in the new year, God can bring it to pass. With God nothing is impossible! If God can impregnate a virgin then God can take care of your situation. He is in control and He is good! Be encouraged and be strengthened!

The Prayer:

Lord, I believe! I believe that you will bring to pass what you have spoken to me. Let it be done according to your Word! In Jesus' name, Amen!