Luke 1:26-55 (ESV)

Anawim = “the poor ones” - the “pious poor” or the “faithful poor.”
“For He has looked on the humble estate of His servant.” (1:48)

“Greetings, O favored one! The Lord is with you.” (1:28)

Mary is “greatly troubled.” (1:29)

Mary experienced the supernatural reality of joy joy despite things not going as planned.


What happens to your joy level when things don’t go as planned?

Control

Escape

Maybe God is using our detour, interruption, or problem to get our attention to draw us to Himself where He can infuse us with the joy that evades us when we try to control or escape?


Mary’s Response:

Trust
“For nothing will be impossible with God.” Luke 1:37

Surrender
“I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word.” Luke 1:38

Wonder, Joy, and Adoration
“My soul magnifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior… Luke 1:46


How is this response possible?

1) God is with her (v. 28)

2) “Nothing is impossible with God.” (v. 37).



Dad






How do we access this joy that transcends circumstances?

Prayer of surrender

Find your “people”
Celebrate Recovery slide
Divorce Care slide

Rejoice
“Rejoice in the Lord always. Again, I say rejoice!” - Philippians 4:4