The selection of Mary to be the mother of Jesus Christ is a profound and multifaceted decision that reflects the depth of God's wisdom and the unfolding of His redemptive plan for humanity. Understanding why God chose Mary involves exploring several dimensions: her character, her lineage, her faith, and the fulfillment of prophetic scripture.
Firstly, the character of Mary is central to comprehending her selection. The Gospel of Luke describes Mary as a young woman who found favor with God (Luke 1:28). The angel Gabriel's greeting, "Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you," indicates that Mary was distinguished by her piety and righteousness. While the Bible does not provide exhaustive details about her life prior to the Annunciation, it is clear that her heart was inclined toward God. This inclination is further evidenced by her response to Gabriel’s announcement: "I am the Lord's servant," Mary answered. "May your word to me be fulfilled" (Luke 1:38). Her humility and willingness to submit to God's will, despite the potential social and personal ramifications, highlight her exceptional faith and obedience.
Mary's lineage also plays a crucial role in her selection. According to the genealogies presented in the Gospels of Matthew and Luke, Mary was of the house of David (Matthew 1:1-16; Luke 3:23-38). This lineage is significant because it fulfills the Old Testament prophecies that the Messiah would come from the line of David. In 2 Samuel 7:12-13, God promises David that his offspring will establish an eternal kingdom: "When your days are over and you rest with your ancestors, I will raise up your offspring to succeed you, your own flesh and blood, and I will establish his kingdom. He is the one who will build a house for my Name, and I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever." By choosing Mary, God ensures that Jesus' birth fulfills this Davidic covenant, establishing Jesus as the legitimate heir to David's throne.
Furthermore, Mary's virginity is a critical element in the divine selection. The prophet Isaiah foretold the virgin birth centuries before it occurred: "Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel" (Isaiah 7:14). This prophecy underscores the miraculous nature of Jesus' conception and birth, emphasizing His divine origin. The virgin birth signifies that Jesus is not merely a human being but the incarnate Son of God, conceived by the Holy Spirit. By choosing Mary, a virgin, God ensures that Jesus' birth is a divine act, free from the inherited sin of humanity, thus making Him the perfect, unblemished sacrifice for the sins of the world.
Mary's faith and her role in God's redemptive plan are further illuminated in her Magnificat, a hymn of praise recorded in Luke 1:46-55. In this passage, Mary glorifies God for His mighty deeds and expresses her understanding of His mercy and faithfulness. She acknowledges that God "has been mindful of the humble state of his servant" and that "from now on all generations will call me blessed" (Luke 1:48). Her song reflects a deep theological insight and a recognition of her place in God's salvific history. It reveals that Mary was not only chosen for her purity and lineage but also for her profound spiritual insight and her ability to grasp the significance of the events unfolding around her.
The choice of Mary also highlights God's preference for the humble and lowly. Mary was a young, unassuming girl from Nazareth, a town of little repute in Galilee. Yet, God chose her over the more prominent and powerful figures of her time. This selection aligns with the biblical theme of God lifting up the humble and bringing down the proud (Luke 1:52). It serves as a reminder that God's ways are not our ways, and His choices often defy human expectations. By choosing Mary, God demonstrates that His grace is available to all, regardless of social status or worldly accomplishments.
Additionally, Mary's role as the mother of Jesus establishes a model of discipleship for all believers. Her willingness to accept God's plan, her trust in His promises, and her perseverance through suffering exemplify the qualities of a faithful follower of Christ. Throughout Jesus' life, Mary remained a steadfast presence, from His birth in Bethlehem to His crucifixion at Calvary. Her journey reflects the path of discipleship, marked by obedience, faith, and a willingness to endure hardship for the sake of God's kingdom.
In Christian literature, Mary's significance is further explored and venerated. For instance, in "The Life of the Blessed Virgin Mary" by Anne Catherine Emmerich, Mary is portrayed as a paragon of virtue and holiness, chosen by God for her exceptional purity and devotion. Similarly, in "The Glories of Mary" by St. Alphonsus Liguori, Mary's role in salvation history is exalted, emphasizing her unique relationship with Jesus and her intercessory power. These works, while not canonical, reflect the deep reverence and theological reflection that Mary has inspired throughout Christian history.
In conclusion, the choice of Mary to be the mother of Jesus is a testament to God's wisdom and grace. Her character, lineage, faith, and the fulfillment of prophecy all converge to make her the ideal vessel for the incarnation of the Son of God. Mary's selection underscores the themes of humility, obedience, and divine favor, offering believers a model of discipleship and a profound example of God's redemptive work in the world. Through Mary, we witness the unfolding of God's plan for salvation, a plan that brings hope and redemption to all humanity.
