The Christmas Story

I have heard the story of Jesus' birth since I was a small tot. Every Christmas my BamBam (Grandfather) reads us the story. Never once have I really really really considered Mary. It says in Luke that she was "favored" by God.
This is what we know:
1. She was a sinner
2. She was willing to do what was asked, even though she didn't really know what she was agreeing too.
3. She called herself a servant for God.

Mary had to have had some great characteristics in order for God to pick her to be Jesus' earthly mother. He must have known that she was going to be a wonderful mother and loved him without ceasing. It takes a strong woman to raise a child and then watch him die on a cross.
I wish that the Bible talked about Mary more. I wish we knew more of her characteristics.

I want to be like Mary. I want to be someone that God would choose to do something important. I don't think God would have chosen me to be the Virgin Mary. Thankfully, that ship has sailed. But to think that God might one day look at me and say, "I want Dana to..."

As much as I would want to be a Mary, I think I am more of an Elizabeth. God choose her as well, but to give birth to John the Baptist. Now, John was great but he wasn't Jesus. I also love how Zechariah doubted God's promise to him. I do that all the time. I say, "No Way. I think it will be better this way." To prove His point, God shut him up until Elizabeth gave birth.

Mary has compassion, humilily, and sympathy. I want that.