MPV Commentary

Annunciation of Christ.

The sixth month of Elisabeth's time had arrived (26). Joseph, a descendant of King David, was chosen by God for this significant role (Joseph, of the house of David).

Mary was highly favored by God, a word that emphasizes her unique status as the mother of Jesus. This term is used only once elsewhere in the New Testament, where believers are described as "accepted" and "loved" by God (Eph 1:6). The Vulgate's translation, "full of grace," has been misused by some to support unbiblical teachings.

However, Mary's status was not just about external distinction. Jesus himself said that those who hear and keep God's word are truly blessed, not just those with a privileged position (Lu 11:27).

The angel Gabriel used language from Isaiah's prophecy (Isa 7:14) to announce the miraculous birth of Jesus.

This event is also an echo of another prophecy in Isaiah, where the Messiah is described as a child born to bring light and salvation to God's people (Isa 9:6-7).

Mary asked how this could happen, given that it was contrary to the natural order of human birth. Her question was not one of unbelief but rather an expression of wonder at the mysterious details of her pregnancy.

The Holy Spirit would be involved in this miraculous conception, and Mary's child would be born through the power of God (Holy Ghost). The phrase "power of the highest" emphasizes the divine origin of Jesus' birth. The word "overshadow" suggests a gentle yet powerful intervention by God, which was both mysterious and beyond human understanding.

The child to be born would be a holy offspring, a true Son of God in his divine nature (35). This is clear from the New Testament, but here we see that Jesus' sonship also involves his human birth. We must not confuse these two aspects or deny the connection between them.

Mary's cousin Elisabeth was also pregnant with John the Baptist, and Mary learned about this through an angelic visitation (36). The miraculous conception of her child was a sign to Mary of God's favor and reward for her faith.

The angel reminded Mary that even in impossible circumstances, God can accomplish what he promises. This is seen in Abraham's experience when God promised him a son in his old age (Ge 18:14).

Mary's faith in the midst of these extraordinary events is truly remarkable.