Summary

Mary’s true story shows us that with faith and trust, we can do great things. This true story highlights Mary’s faith, obedience, and the joy of being the mother of Jesus.

Key Lessons

Trusting God’s Plan

Mary teaches us the importance of trusting God, even when we are afraid or unsure.  (Luke 1:38). It’s okay to have questions but trusting God is essential. 

The Importance of Praise

In her song of praise, Mary expressed joy and gratitude to God for His blessings (Luke 1:46-55). We should praise God for His goodness and faithfulness, even during challenging times. 

Saying ‘Yes’ to God

Mary’s willingness to say “yes” to God’s plan for her life is a powerful example. It encourages us to be open to God’s calling, reminding us that saying yes to God can lead to wonderful and unexpected blessings. 

Humility and Faith

Mary accepted her humble status yet rejoiced in God’s favor and grace (Luke 1:46-55). She was deeply faithful and meditated on God’s works throughout her life (Luke 2:19).

Mary

Luke 1:27–2:34; Matthew 1:16, 18, 20: 2:12

Mary’s Special Calling In a small town called Nazareth, there lived a young girl named Mary. She was engaged to a man named Joseph. One day, something extraordinary happened. An angel named Gabriel appeared to Mary and greeted her, saying, “Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you!”

Mary was surprised and a little scared. The angel reassured her, saying, “Don’t be afraid, Mary. You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you will name Him Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High.”

Mary listened carefully and asked, “How can this be, since I am a virgin?” The angel explained that the Holy Spirit would come upon her, and the baby would be holy. Mary thought for a moment and then said, “I am the Lord’s servant. May your word to me be fulfilled.” With that, the angel left, and Mary felt a sense of peace and joy.  

A Journey to Bethlehem 
As the time for Mary to have her baby approached, she and Joseph had to travel to Bethlehem to register for a census. The journey was long and tiring, but they trusted God to take care of them.

When they arrived in Bethlehem, they found that all the inns were full. There was no place for them to stay. Finally, a kind innkeeper offered them a stable where they could rest. That night, in the humble stable, Mary gave birth to her baby boy, Jesus. She wrapped Him in cloths and laid Him in a manger, a feeding trough for animals.
The Shepherds and the Angels 
That same night, some shepherds were in the fields nearby, watching over their sheep. Suddenly, an angel appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them. The angel said, “Do not be afraid! I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people. Today in the town of David, a Savior has been born to you; He is the Messiah, the Lord.”

The shepherds were amazed and hurried to find the baby. When they arrived at the stable, they found Mary and Joseph with baby Jesus. They rejoiced and spread the word about what they had seen and heard.

Mary’s Heart 
As Mary listened to the shepherds, she treasured all these things in her heart. She knew that God had chosen her for a special purpose, and she was grateful for the gift of her son, Jesus.

Mary and Joseph took care of Jesus as He grew up.  

Activities

Scripture Memory Game

Write out key verses from Paul’s letters to Timothy on cards. Have children
take turns reading them aloud and trying to memorize them. 

Praise

Encouraging children to find reasons to praise God can help them develop a
positive outlook. Encourage children to create their own “song of praise” or poem to express their gratitude to God, inspired by Mary’s words. 

Mary’s Trust and Praise

Read Luke 1:26-56, focusing on Mary’s acceptance of God’s plan and her song of praise (The Magnificat). Invite family members to share a time they had to trust God even when it was hard. Create a gratitude list or prayer of praise together, inspired by Mary’s song.

Mother’s Heart Role-Play

Act out scenes of Mary caring for Jesus and supporting Him. Talk about what it means to love and support one another in faith and life. 

Discuss having a humble heart

After reading, discuss what children learned about Mary’s character and faith.