The Annunciation of the Lord

The Power of Saying Yes: Mary’s Incredible Choice

Imagine being asked to change the entire course of human history — and having the power to say no.

That’s exactly the situation Mary found herself in during the Annunciation, a moment that might seem distant and churchy, but is actually one of the most human stories ever told. This isn’t just some old religious tale; it’s a story about choice, courage, and the incredible potential each of us has to make a difference.

A Moment of Unexpected Invitation

Picture this: You’re a young woman, probably in your teens, living a quiet life in a small town. Suddenly, an angel appears and tells you that you’re going to play a role so significant it will reshape human history. No pressure, right?

Gabriel didn’t just give Mary a simple task. He was essentially asking her to become the mother of Jesus, the saviour Christians believe would transform humanity’s relationship with God. And here’s the mind-blowing part: she could have said no.

The Freedom to Choose

Many people imagine Mary as some kind of passive, predetermined character. But that completely misses the point. Her strength wasn’t in being a robotic “yes” machine, but in consciously, thoughtfully choosing to accept an incredible and terrifying responsibility.

Saying yes meant:

  • Potential social ostracism in her community
  • Personal risk and potential danger
  • Carrying an extraordinary spiritual burden
  • Participating in a plan bigger than herself

What if She Had Refused?

The truly radical aspect of this story is that Mary’s consent was genuinely required. God didn’t force her. He asked. This suggests that even in the most cosmic of plans, human free will matters deeply.

If Mary had said no, according to Christian theology, God would have found another way. But her specific “yes” was crucial — a testament to how each individual’s choices can have universe-altering consequences.

Lessons for Everyone

You might think, “I’m not going to save humanity, so this doesn’t apply to me.” But that’s where you’re wrong. The Annunciation teaches us that:

  • Your choices matter, even when they seem small
  • Courage isn’t about being fearless, but about acting despite fear
  • Sometimes the most transformative moments begin with a simple “yes”

Beyond Religious Boundaries

Even if you’re not religious, there’s something universally powerful about this narrative. It’s about a young woman facing an unprecedented moment and choosing to embrace a challenging path with grace and intentionality.

Mary wasn’t just passive; she was an active participant in her own story. She asked questions, sought understanding, and then made an informed decision that would change everything.

The Invitation Continues

Here’s the most beautiful part: This story suggests that we’re all continuously invited to participate in something larger than ourselves. Not through dramatic angelic appearances, but through the everyday choices we make.

Will you say yes to the opportunities that challenge you? Will you step into roles that might seem overwhelming but could be profoundly meaningful?

The Annunciation isn’t just a religious milestone. It’s a powerful reminder that each of us has the potential to say “yes” to something bigger than ourselves.

26 In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a town in Galilee called Nazareth, 27 to a virgin engaged to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. 28 And he came to her and said, “Hail, full of grace! The Lord is with you.”[a] 29 But she was much perplexed by his words and pondered what sort of greeting this might be. 30 The angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favour with God. 31 And now, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you will name him Jesus. 32 He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Most High, and the Lord God will give to him the throne of his ancestor David. 33 He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end.” 34 Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I am a virgin?”[b] 35 The angel said to her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore the child to be born[c] will be holy; he will be called Son of God. 36 And now, your relative Elizabeth in her old age has also conceived a son; and this is the sixth month for her who was said to be barren. 37 For nothing will be impossible with God.” 38 Then Mary said, “Here am I, the servant of the Lord; let it be with me according to your word.” Then the angel departed from her.

Luke 1:26-38