Gabriel:  A Messenger of Good News

By Janaya Gripper

Montreal, Canada

Scriptures: Luke 1:8-19; 26-38

 I can’t imagine having a personal message delivered to me by an angel, appearing unexpectedly! And I would argue that Zachariah and Mary couldn’t have imagined it either. Gabriel announces himself as one who stands in the presence of God, to deliver good news that is guaranteed, “for no word from God will ever fail”(1:37). For Zachariah, this message was an answer to his prayer. For Mary, it was news of a long-awaited prophecy that would be fulfilled in her.

Both respond to Gabriel in awe, seeking assurance of what he had said. In different words, and most likely in different tones, they ask, “But how?” I trust I am in good company as I admit that I have often sought clarity and assurance from God, sometimes with a tone that says: “But how, God? Look at all these obstacles. This doesn’t make sense.” What if you and I found a different way to respond when we don’t understand?

In a networking event, I once played an improv game called “Yes, and...” It develops a particular skill to be prepared to receive the unexpected. In improv comedy, you can’t anticipate what your partner will say.  So, in this game, you must always respond with “Yes, and…” at the beginning of your response, even when you’ve heard something that sounds absurd, unusual, or impossible.

Especially as this year ends, we may have a long prayer list and be faced with many obstacles. It would be easy to remain in a pattern of thinking or praying that begins with “But how, Lord?” Instead, what if you started with “Yes, and...”?

- Yes, and God has answered my prayers before.

- Yes, and my God always works things out for my good.

- Yes, and I’ve already received the best news of all, my salvation through His Son.

- Yes, and "I am the Lord's servant. May His word to me be fulfilled.”

Questions for Reflection:

1.       What truths about God bring you assurance of His plan for you? Write down any scriptures that come to mind.
2.       List the obstacles you see to some of your prayers. Practice responding, “Yes, and…,” using these truths about our God.

3.      Who needs to hear this message right now? Be a messenger like Gabriel, who was confident in the word of God.