Peace comes from unexpected places.

Scripture Passage

Therefore, the Lord Himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive, have a son, and name him Immanuel.

-Isaiah 7:14 HCSB

In the sixth month, the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a town in Galilee called Nazareth, to a virgin engaged to a man named Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. And the angel came to her and said, “Rejoice, favored woman! The Lord is with you.” But she was deeply troubled by this statement, wondering what kind of greeting this could be. Then the angel told her: Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. Now listen: You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you will call His name Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High, and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David. He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and His kingdom will have no end. Mary asked the angel, “How can this be, since I have not been intimate with a man? ” The angel replied to her: “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. Therefore, the holy One to be born will be called the Son of God. And consider your relative Elizabeth — even she has conceived a son in her old age, and this is the sixth month for her who was called childless. For nothing will be impossible with God.” “I am the Lord’s slave,” said Mary. “May it be done to me according to your word.” Then the angel left her.
-Luke 1:26‭-‬38 HCSB

Message

Gabriel surprises Mary with news for her very unexpected pregnancy. Sometimes, we get unexpected blessings from God. It can be hard to understand what is going on, but if you are willing to submit to the Lord and trust Him, He will bring you Peace.

The First Advent was waited on with great expectations, but Mary probably never thought it would be her that would carry the Messiah. As we wait on the Second Advent, look for the unexpected. God may just bless you in ways that you were not ready for.

Prayer

Lord God,

Bless us in Your unexpected ways. Let us have the opportunity to serve you like Mary did. Give us the Peace that comes with knowing You. In Jesus’ name we ask these things.

Amen