God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, to a virgin named Mary. She was pledged to be married to a man named Joseph.

Gabriel appeared to her and said, “Greetings, highly favored woman. The Lord is with you. Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God.”

She had been chosen from her mother’s womb to conceive and give birth to Jesus. The angel stood before her and called her «Highly favored woman» to show her the great privilege of being part of the Lord’s plans.

He then told her not to fear such a tremendous responsibility, for she would have God’s favor, provision, and protection.

Faced with this extraordinary proposal, Mary humbly accepted the Lord’s invitation.

This is how the Most High continues to call His chosen ones: He reveals Himself to them, shows them the great privilege of being chosen, dispels their fears, and reveals His favor and the mission He has for each one on earth.