Mary did you know? Mary Lowry, Pentatonix

There’s something about Mary.

Mother Mary. Jesus’ mum.

Countless images, statues and songs have paid her tribute. A YouTube search reveals numerous takes of Lowry’s poem. The most epic is by Pentatonix.

This is remarkable given Mary doesn’t occupy much space in the gospels. Sadly, all that has built up around her clouds the great thing about her.

And that is, her obedience. The same with her beau, Jo.

One thing marks the parents of Jesus. Their obedience.

When was the last time you heard a Christmas message on that?

(Actually, I did a talk on this back in 2013. But I digress…)

To the poem and the gospels.

The poem is replete with one question…

Mary did you know?

There’s no way she could’ve known. Angels appear, shepherds appear, wise men appear; she flees her home because someone wants her kid dead, living as asylum seekers. Mary did not know, yet she obeyed. Right at the start she vowed…

I am the Lord’s servant. May it be to me as you have said.

The big plan is announced to her and she says, “Let it be…”

(And no, that’s not a Beatles reference. Paul sang about his mum, not Jesus’)

Actually, there is something she did know (Jesus’ mum, not Paul’s). She knew who she was carrying. And the poem captures this brilliantly…

This child that you’ve delivered, will soon deliver you

This she knows. She herself sang…

My soul glorifies the Lord

And my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour

She may not know exactly what’s going on, but she knows who Jesus is.

And she chooses to obey.  

In an age where breaking the rules is all the rage, Mary still speaks to us today.

No surprise people keep paying her tribute.