Introduction:
The Christmas story among other things teaches us that with God nothing is impossible. In this story we learn from Mary how the seemingly impossible can become possible. God is showing us that as he initiates the impossible, he gives favour for the impossible, he understands our questions about the impossible and he does the impossible when we respond in faith.
I God Initiates the Impossible v26
i) God sent His angel: Mary did not initiate this impossibility but God did. Man did not initiate his salvation; we cannot save ourselves. The Jews could not produce the Messiah on their own.
ii) In the Garden of Eden: When man first sinned and God cursed the serpent, even in the curse, He promises that the seed of the woman would crush the serpent’s head. While we were still sinners – God initiated - Christ died for us.
iii) Even in our impossible situations today: Christmas reminds us that God has already initiated to make your impossible possible. He has sent his son and along with him he will graciously give us all things.
II God bestows Favour for the impossible v 28,30
i) Mary is highly favoured: She was an ordinary teenaged peasant girl. She was not highly educated, rich, etc. God bestowed his favour on her. 2 Corinthians 6:2 For he says, "In the time of my favour I heard you, and in the day of salvation I helped you." I tell you, now is the time of God’s favour, now is the day of salvation.
ii) God has no favourites: So all can enjoy His favour.
III God Does the impossible – How? v 34
i) Mary asked how? You may be asking how will it happen? Mary did too. How will I be healed, how will I be cleansed from my sin, how will my problem be solved?
ii) The Holy Spirit: v 35The impossible would happen by the power of the Holy Spirit. Not by might or by power (Zec 4:6). The Holy Spirit would do what was impossible with man.
IV God builds Faith for the impossible. v 36
i) Gives Mary a sign: Elizabeth who was barren and past childbearing age is pregnant. Mary had to believe the impossible. God helps Mary’s faith to rise. God wants to give you a sign today.
ii) Nothing is impossible with God: v 37 Angel tells her this to build her faith. Faith comes by hearing the word of God.
V God does the impossible as we Respond. v 38
i) Submission to the Word: I am the Lord’s servant - I will not argue with God, I submit. Be it done to me according to your word. Submitting to God’s Word.
Conclusion:
Mary experienced the impossible for all of us. Today through Jesus we all receive favour from God. Whatever our impossibility, God is able to do it.
