Behold the Wonder

Advent Image specially created by Michele Bowden

Wow to Wonder

by Amy Tromba on December 1, 2024

“The angel said to her, 'Do not be afraid, Mary; for you have found favor with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall name Him Jesus.'" — Luke 1:30-31

I stared in bewilderment at the positive pregnancy test in my hand. Just a few months prior, my husband and I had discussed with a doctor possible options for getting pregnant since it hadn’t happened yet, but we were told to keep waiting. Give it more time. Be patient. For me, that was a big ask.

But I waited. I gave it more time. For once, I was patient.

Within minutes, my sudden burst of surprise from the positive pregnancy test transitioned to a thankful heart in complete awe of God’s gracious gift. I couldn’t wait to share the news with my husband.

I had a WOW to WONDER experience.

I’m curious if Mary had a similar experience when she heard the news from the angel Gabriel that she had found favor with God and would give birth to the Son of the Most High.

Gabriel uses the word behold when telling Mary she would conceive and give birth to Jesus. The King James Bible Dictionary defines behold as “to fix the eyes upon; to see with attention; to observe with care.” It was more than just physically seeing something with one’s eyes. It was about spiritually embracing a life-changing truth that was about to be explained.

It’s interesting that Mary only spoke twice during this angelic visit. First, after hearing Gabriel’s announcement, she asked, How will this be, since I am a virgin? (vs 34).

As a young virgin, newly betrothed, I can only imagine Mary’s great surprise at hearing Gabriel’s words. Her question wasn’t asked because she didn’t believe God could do such an incredible thing. Instead, perhaps it was a burst of amazement because God had chosen her.

A WOW moment. An, I need to sit down and take a few deep breaths because I may pass out from this surprise, moment.

The angel continued to share more details with Mary, including her relative, Elizabeth, who was now six months pregnant. The angel ended with these well-known words, For nothing will be impossible with God (vs 37). Mary speaks for a second time, Behold, the Lord’s bondservant; may it be done to me according to your word (vs 38a).

Did you catch that? Mary used the word behold when she responded to Gabriel, announcing herself as God’s servant, ready to fulfill His purpose.

Mary had transitioned from a WOW to WONDER moment.

According to the Cambridge Dictionary, wonder can be used as a verb or noun. When used as a verb, it means “to ask yourself questions or to feel or express great surprise at something.” When used as a noun, it means “a feeling of great surprise and admiration caused by seeing or experiencing something strange and new.”

I’m sure Mary felt the wonder of this news in both ways. But even more blessed, nine months later she would, with her own eyes, behold The Wonder of God in human form, Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6).

This advent season, I pray you will have moments of WOW and WONDER as you reflect upon God’s priceless gift of His Beloved Son. May you behold The Wonder of Jesus Christ in all that you say and do because, after all, He is the reason for the season.

(Amy Tromba is one of our NorthStar writers.)