If you are given to hypochondriasis or “illness anxiety disorder,” you surely would not want to be transported back to biblical times. First, they had a host of frightening diseases and illnesses which, in modern times, have been eradicated. Second, they had almost no understanding of the causes; germs and bacteria, for example, were unknown in the ancient world. And third, the treatments – administered by priests, magicians and quacks – were at best useless and more often barbaric.

Why is this granted to me that the mother of my Lord should come to me?

Luke 1:43

You especially would not want to be an expectant mother in biblical times. Pregnancy and childbirth represented the pinnacle of risk…from infection, bleeding, high blood pressure or other complications. Elisabeth, pregnant with the baby who would become John the Baptist, asked, “Why Me, Lord?” But it wasn’t a complaint. She wondered why she could be so favored. She was overjoyed to be part of the fulfillment of what was spoken to her from the Lord.

What’s troubling you today? A personal need, a family difficulty, or the disgraceful state of America? Whatever it may be, is there an opportunity in it for you to be a blessing? As you pray today, find the answer! “Why me, Lord?”

Recommended Reading: Psalm 40:1-8