Today we conclude our brief look at lessons gleaned from the encounter between the Angel Gabriel and Mary, in which Mary humbly submitted to the Lord saying, “Do it to me according to thy word” (Luke 1:26-38). Our final instalment, here, considers God’s rewards for obedience and submission to His Word.
Mary submitted to and obeyed the Word of God in a truly exemplary manner. It is quite obvious that she did not fully understand all the details of God’s plan or why she was chosen. It is also evident that she had limitations that would have naturally “excused” her from such a request. However, she was willing and obedient to do what was required of her. Consequently, she received great rewards from God.
Mary’s rewards included the supernatural birth of a baby boy who grew to be the promised Messiah. As a result of this, her name was etched in the annals of history as being the mother of Jesus the Christ. For the rest of her life, she was highly honoured in this regard. Additionally, Mary would have received from the treasures of the Magi from the East, when they visited the Christ-child. Finally, and most importantly, Mary would have had eternal rewards.
We are all encouraged that, “If we are willing and obedient, we shall eat the good of the land” (Is. 1:19). In Deuteronomy 28, the Lord outlines a series of blessing, that covers basically every aspect of life, which follows obedience.
Like Mary, the Patriarch Abraham was obedient to God in the face of many debilitating challenges. He similarly submitted to God’s Word and in like manner he received great rewards — He received God’s promises, His name was honoured, he received earthly provision and he gained eternal rewards.
God is not averse to rewarding His people. Once we willing submit to Him and obey His Word, we too shall have similar rewards. God’s promises shall be ours; He would cause our name to be honoured; we shall have earthly provision and, most importantly, we will have an eternal inheritance.