In the Bible, book of Luke, chapter 1, verses 26-38, the angel Gabriel comes to Mary to announce to her that she will conceive by the power of the Holy Spirit, and will bear a son.  The child will be holy – the Son of God.  Let’s explore what that scene might have looked like through various artists who through the ages have depicted that moment…

The angel came to a city called Nazareth to a Virgin named Mary betrothed to a carpenter named Joseph….just a simple normal everyday household.  They are occupied and not at all in tune with what is about to happen. How did the angel get in?   Boy, are they in for a surprise!!

( 15th century, Merode Altarpiece, Robert Campin, Flemish painter)

The Angel appears and says ,”Greetings, O favored one, the Lord is with you!”  Mary realizes this is not normal talk and is greatly troubled…what’s up??

(“The Story of Christmas” by Felix Hoffmann)

Mary is now in total shock.  The angel says,” Don’t be afraid!  You will conceive and bear a son and call him Jesus”.  Mary is in a trance.  It is just more than she can handle!

Mary knows she is a virgin, so…”How can this be?”  The angel says, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you.  This child will be holy”.  The dove, symbol of the Holy Spirit,  is present above Mary in this painting.  Mary is holding her breasts as if she has an awareness something is happening to her body.  Is this the holy moment?

(“Annunciation” by Fra Angelico, 1430 )

The Gospel of Luke proclaims that nothing will be impossible with God. (Verse 37) It seems here that the angel and Mary have dramatically rehearsed their regal response. Notice their hands reaching out, almost touching.  I am reminded of Michaelangelo’s painting in the Sistene Chapel of the finger of God almost touching his creation of man.  Holy Moment!

Mary now says, “I am a servant of the Lord!  Let it be!!”  It’s almost like these two have now made a deal. There is this knowing look between them.  The angel is giving the sign of peace and Mary is giving the “high five”!

(Anonymous, Psalter, Venice, 1270-1280)

“Mary did you know that your Baby Boy has come to make you new? ?..This child that you delivered will soon deliver you?  Mary did you know that your Baby Boy has walked where angels trod?  Mary did you know that your Baby Boy is Lord of all creation? …Did you know the  sleeping child you’re holding is the Great, I Am.”  (lyrics by Mark Lowry)

Mary did you know?

nk

Pondering…

Which painting do you like?

Imagine how young Mary was, her fears, her faith.