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In the sixth month, I, the angel Gabriel was sent from Almighy God to a city of Galilee, named Nazareth. I went to a virgin who was engaged to a man whose name was Joseph (of the lineage of David). The virgin's name was Mary. Moreover, when I came into her presence I said to her. "Hail oh favored one endued with grace. The Lord is with you, Mary. Blessed of God are you before all other women." When Mary saw and heard him, she was greatly troubled. She was disturbed and even confused by what he said. His words kept echoing her mind as she tried to determine what this greeting might possibly mean. Then said Gabriel to her: "Fear not, Mary. You have found absolute favor and loving kindness with God. Listen carefully! You will become pregnant and will give birth to the Son of God. And this is the name you must choose for Him. His name will be called JESUS. Furthermore, He will be great (eminent), and will be called the SON of the Highest, and the LORD GOD will give him the throne of his father David. And He will reign over the house of Jacob throughout the ages, and of His Kingdom there will be no end." Then Mary after listening to all that the angel had said and wondering how this could possibly be, asked the angel a question. "How can this be? You must understand that I am a virgin, and most certainly have never been intimate with a man." Gabriel answered Mary saying, "The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the awesome power of the Most High, will overshadow you as a shining cloud. And the holy (pure and sinless) Thing, which will be born of you, will be called the SON of GOD! Listen Mary, your cousin Elizabeth has miraculously conceived a son in her old age. I know you are aware that she was barren (childless), but she is now in her sixth month of pregnancy. For with God nothing is ever impossible, and no word from God will ever be powerless, for all things are possible by and for Him." And Mary, looking at the angel Gabriel, said with solid resolve. "I am the handmaiden (servant) of the Lord. Let it be unto me as you have just said." And immediately the angel departed from her presence. ![]() Mary then went into the hill country with haste, into the city of Judah. When she arrived at Zechariah´s home, upon entering she greeted her cousin Elizabeth. When Elizabeth heard Mary´s greeting, the babe leaped in Elizabeth´s womb. Then Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. With a loud voice Elizabeth said, Blessed Are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb. But what have I done to be so honored, that the mother ( to be) of our Lord, come to visit me? Oh, Mary, the Mary responded to Elizabeth with joy. My soul magnifies and extols the Lord, and My spirit rejoices in God my Savior. He has looked upon the low estate of His hand-maiden. Listen, Elizabeth, from this day forward and through all generations I will Be called blessed. He that is mighty has does great things for me. Holy is His name! His mercy, compassion and kindness are on them that fear Him with godly reverence, from one generation to another. He has shown strength and might by His arm. He Mary remained in Elizabeth´s home for about three months, then she returned to her own home. Shortly thereafter, Elizabeth gave birth to a son, who later became John The Baptist. |
