“Behold, the handmaid of the Lord” Ref Luke 1: 38. Was Mary afraid or something else?
The Scripture tells us that, when the Angel Gabriel greeted Mary “ Hail, full of grace”, she was disturbed. And the angel said to her, do not be afraid and delivered the message from God. She on her part said Yes to God with the words, “ I am the handmaid of the Lord, Be it done unto me as you have said”. Ref Luke 1: 26:38
The Greek term used in the Gospel “doule” is the feminine form of a common Old Testament designation for slave or servant. The “doulia” or service of God- to be God’s servant or handmaid in the Old Testament stands for the synthesis of a life dedicated to God.
It also expresses a well-defined concept that is rooted in the experience of slavery in Egypt and Babylonia. Slavery in Israel was on the basis of work and the slave’s personal dignity was safeguarded. Ref Leviticus 25:39ff, Exodus 21:2-11, Deuteronomy 15:12ff Hence the servant serves the common good of all. In the Old Testament we see servant of God as the title for Moses, David and the Prophets.
In the New Testament, the word Servant is closely associated “minister” which connotes testimony rendered to Christ. In Latin, minister has it root from “instrument to be used by its owner” The common meaning of subordination and dependence is modified by freedom and choice in Jesus. No wonder Paul regards himself as Apostle and a slave of Christ Jesus. Ref Philippians 1:1, Galatians 1:10
By her consent, Mary committed herself responsibly in a joyous and sorrowful service of the person and work of her Son; consecrating herself totally with him and under him to the service of the Mystery of salvation and redemption. Even more, she lived her mission of service with faith and obedience, thanksgiving and suffering.
“Handmaid” places Mary among the lowly, the poor and the sick. The Greek word used here in Anawim. The post-exilic books of the Old Testament especially are marked by the spirituality of the anawah, the poor and lowly servant. The anawah are quiet folk who fear God. They look up to God. They are the poor of Yahweh.This is the exact word used by Mary when she said I am the handmaid of the Lord.
Therefore, handmaid nature of Mary can best be understood from her close association with the Son in fulfilling the mission of Father.
To Be Continued…
Mary, Servant of Christ…..Pray for us
Complied by:
Eric Dagbui
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