Mary, the mother of Jesus, played a crucial role in the life of the Savior. Her importance in Christianity is undeniable, and her character is revered by millions around the world. However, Mary’s role in the life of Jesus was not just a coincidence; it was foreshadowed in the Old Testament.
The Prophecy of Isaiah
The first hint of Mary’s role in the life of Jesus is found in Isaiah 7:14, which says “Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.” This prophecy speaks about a virgin who would give birth to a child who would be called Immanuel. This child would be none other than Jesus Christ Himself.
The fulfillment of this prophecy is seen in Luke 1:26-38 when an angel appears to Mary and tells her that she will conceive and give birth to Jesus. When Mary questions how this could happen since she is a virgin, the angel tells her that “the Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called[b]the Son of God”(Luke 1:35).
The Lineage from David
The second foreshadowing can be seen in Jesus’ lineage from David. In 2 Samuel 7:12-16, God promises David that his descendants would rule over Israel forever. This promise was fulfilled through Jesus Christ who was born from David’s lineage (Matthew 1:1).
This connection between Mary and David’s lineage can also be seen through Joseph (Mary’s husband), who was also from David’s line (Matthew 1:6). This makes it clear that Mary was chosen by God to play an important role in bringing forth our Savior.
The Ark of Covenant
Another way in which Mary’s role was foreshadowed can be seen through the Ark of the Covenant. In the Old Testament, the Ark was a sacred box that contained the tablets of the Ten Commandments and represented God’s presence among His people.
In Luke 1:39-56, Mary visits Elizabeth and upon hearing Mary’s greeting, Elizabeth is filled with the Holy Spirit and says “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear! But why am I so favored, that the mother of my Lord should come to me?” (Luke 1:42-43).
This statement is significant because it mirrors David’s words when he brought the Ark of the Covenant into Jerusalem (2 Samuel 6:9). David had said “How can the ark of the Lord come to me?” Similarly, Elizabeth wonders how she has been blessed to have Mary visit her – a parallel to how David wondered how he could receive God’s presence.
The Suffering Servant
Finally, Mary’s role in Jesus’ life was also foreshadowed through Isaiah 53. This chapter speaks about a suffering servant who would bear our sins. This servant would be despised and rejected by men but ultimately would be victorious over death.
Mary’s role in this prophecy can be seen in her witness to Jesus’ crucifixion. She suffered alongside her son as He bore our sins on His shoulders. Her heartache at watching her son die reflects the suffering servant mentioned in Isaiah 53.
In conclusion, Mary played an integral role in bringing forth our Savior Jesus Christ. Her character was foreshadowed throughout the Old Testament through various prophecies and events.
It is clear that God chose Mary for this important task and that she fulfilled it with grace and humility. Her story continues to inspire millions around the world today.