Behold

In a far distant time,

In a story so well known throughout the lands,

We hear once again about an angel

Who visits a young girl to announce God's plans. 

We hear about the angel's proclamation, "Behold..."  and her response, "Behold..."    

In both the Online Dictionary and in Merriam Webster dictionary the definition of BEHOLD is a transitive verb meaning:

1: to perceive through sight or apprehension : see

2: to gaze upon : observe

Literally, they are saying, "Watch, this will happen," it's an action on both sides; the Holy Spirit will come down and bring forth the pregnancy in Mary and, in turn, Mary will allow this in cooperation with God as His handmaid.  Human and divine working together for one purpose, love.

Behold, our God will bring us a savior, His name is Jesus!  Jesus loved us so much and He showed us in not so small ways throughout His earthly life.  Here, His mother begins His journey towards the goal of salvation!

The magnitude of these actions are dynamic yet are revealed in so humble a way that they can be misconstrued as simple, if not precious.  When looking at the big picture, this Advent cannot be precious, but amazing if not overwhelmingly incomprehensible!  This first step in the journey that leads us in so many ways in awe of what we have in salvation history, a faithful and loving Triune God who keeps His promises and loves us in a dimension not fully comprehended by man.

Throughout salvation history, we have witnessed the bravery, strength, and courage of so many of our brothers and sisters saying "Yes" to God's plan, empowering those around them and ourselves into the future to keep the faith and stay in the vineyards building the Kingdom of God in our midst.   Not only for ourselves, but those in the future generations who will need this more. The unknown is scary as the young Mary displayed in her conversation with Gabriel, but she pressed on for future generations, as we must too.  We must keep on fighting the good fight, pressing on with bravery, strength, and courage for the future generations that will need us more in the unknown times ahead.

"For behold, henceforth all generations will call me blessed; for He who is mighty has done great things for me, and holy is His name.  And His mercy is on those who fear Him from generation to generation."

Behold!