Favored
“You have found favor with God.”
As we celebrate the Immaculate Conception of our Lord through Mary, we can stand back in wonder. We can stand in wonder that Jesus was immaculately conceived. We can stand in wonder that Jesus came to us as a baby. We can stand in wonder that Mary found favor with God.
God chose Mary to bring Jesus into the world. He chose Mary to bring light into the world. And like Mary, He chooses us to bring light into the world. Like Mary, we have found favor with our God.
We are favored by Him.
Favor: approval, support, or liking for someone or something. He has found us worthy of His favor. There’s nothing to earn. We already have His approval. We already have His support. We are already liked by Him, loved by Him. He has found favor in us that we may receive His light and His love - and bring it to others.
Father,
Thank You for offering Mary as a mother to us. Thank You for her gentleness, her mother’s heart, and her example. Thank You for her humility and generosity. Please help us to model after her and grow nearer to her.
Father, Thank You for looking at us and seeing our value - the way You saw Mary. Thank You for seeing our littleness, and bestowing Your favor anyway. Thank You for looking at us and finding favor.
Father, help us to realize Your love more deeply. Help us to receive Your love and Your light during this season of preparation. Help us to know You and Your love more fully.
Father, we love You. We’re so grateful for You. We’re so grateful for Your love. Thank You, Father. Amen.