Themes to consider: Fulfilment of Old Testament prophecies is the significance of ‘Emmanuel’, God with us. In other words, Jesus, as Saviour, took on our humanity by experiencing all the difficulties and temptations of human life. This enabled him to become a merciful and compassionate High Priest: “But we do see Jesus, who was made lower than the angels for a little while, now crowned with glory and honour because he suffered death so that by the grace of God he might taste death for everyone” (Heb 2:9). The angel Gabriel visited Mary. Why did God choose her? In Mary, we see her willing heart of surrender, obedience, faith and trust, and God’s sovereign choice and purpose. The virgin birth was necessary not only to produce one who was both God and human, but also to produce one who was without sin (c.f. Heb 4:15 “For we do not have a high priest… who has been tempted in every way, just as we are – yet he did not sin”; and 1 Jn 3:5 “[Jesus] appeared so that he might take away our sins. And in him is no sin”).
Possible applications: Cultivate a heart of obedience, trust, and faith; recognise God’s faithfulness in fulfilling His promises; open your heart to God; and embrace God’s call and purpose in your life.
