Jesse Tree Symbol #23: Mary

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Jesse Tree Symbol #23: Mary
(And an angel appeared to a woman named Mary—a young prophet who would bear the living Word of God into the world and name him Jesus)

Luke 1:26-38, 46-55



The Anunciation
by Graham Rogers, age 9
"Mary appeared before an angel, warrior of light. This was not the only time an angel appeared in the bible. After the first sin, an angel with a flaming sword guarded the garden of Eden. An entire angel chorus appeared to the shepherds in the field watching over their flocks by night. There is only one story where an angel is bad; the angel of darkness appeared to kill all the firstborn sons of each family except the Hebrew sons. They followed God’s command and the angel passed them over. Angels appear in a lot of other stories. but I can’t tell you those for now."

Lord God, you choose the very least
And raise us up to greatness
For nothing is impossible with You
You take the weak, the poor and blind
And raise us out of darkness
Teach us obedience, Lord
In every part of our lives
Ears to hear your word
Hands to do your work
Feet to walk your path
A heart for all your people
A mouth to shout your praise
A childlike faith
Humility
Confidence
That says
To the possible
And the impossible
I am the Lord's servant
May it be to me as you have said.
Amen

— John Birch



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Kids Corner

Read and Discuss: Luke 1:26-38

Review each character: where have we seen Gabriel before? Who was Elizabeth (and who was her husband and her son)?

I'm sure it was a surprise for Mary to hear such news from the angel Gabriel. Do you think your family was surprised when they heard that you were coming into their lives? Ask your family what it was like for them to wait and prepare for you. How do you think Mary felt?

 Pray: Dear Jesus, you came into our world in a wonderful way. Thank you. We are waiting for you, so help us to be ready. Amen.

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