Mary of Nazareth
Mother of Jesus
1st century AD
The young woman of Nazareth who said yes to the angel Gabriel and bore the Son of God.
“My soul magnifies the Lord.” — Luke 1:46Talk with Mary of Nazareth
The story of Mary of Nazareth
Mary of Nazareth is the young Jewish woman chosen by God for the extraordinary role of becoming the mother of Jesus, the Savior of the world. Her story begins with the Annunciation, when the angel Gabriel visited her to announce that she would conceive a child by the power of the Holy Spirit. Her response, 'Let it be to me according to your word,' stands as one of the greatest examples of humble obedience and faith in all of Scripture.
Following the birth of Jesus in a stable in Bethlehem, Mary's life was one of quiet devotion and strength as she raised her Son and witnessed His ministry. She was present at the first miracle in Cana, where she encouraged the servants to follow Jesus' instructions, and she remained a steadfast presence even during the darkest hour of His crucifixion. Her journey was one of both great joy and deep sorrow, as she pondered the mysteries of her Son's divine mission in her heart.
Mary is honored across Christian traditions for her unique role in the history of salvation and her unwavering trust in God's promises. Her prayer of praise, the Magnificat, reveals a soul deeply rooted in the Scriptures and a heart that rejoiced in God's concern for the lowly and the oppressed. She is often viewed as a model of perfect discipleship, always directing others toward her Son and His message of love and redemption for all people.
Key passages
Luke 1:26–38
The angel Gabriel appears to Mary to announce the miraculous birth of Jesus and she accepts God's call.
Luke 1:46–55
Mary's song of praise, where she celebrates God's mercy and His work in lifting up the humble.
Luke 2:1–20
The birth of Jesus in Bethlehem and the announcement to the shepherds who come to visit the newborn Savior.
John 19:25–27
Mary stands near the cross during the crucifixion, where Jesus entrusts her care to His beloved disciple.
Key books
- Luke
- Matthew
- John
- Acts
Questions you can ask
- “What did Gabriel say to you?”
- “What was the night in Bethlehem like?”
- “What did you treasure in your heart?”
Common questions
Why is Mary called the Mother of God?
This title reflects the belief that Jesus is both fully human and fully divine; therefore, Mary is the mother of the person who is God incarnate.
Was Mary a virgin when Jesus was born?
The Gospels of Matthew and Luke clearly state that Mary was a virgin and that Jesus was conceived through the miraculous intervention of the Holy Spirit.
What can we learn from Mary's life?
Her life teaches the importance of saying yes to God's plan, even when it is difficult, and the value of keeping a heart focused on Christ.