The Divine Favor and Its Costs

Mary's divine favor, as communicated by the angel Gabriel, carries significant personal costs despite its seemingly positive connotation. Her unexpected pregnancy poses relational challenges with Joseph, as he may struggle to accept her explanation of divine conception. Social stigma in first-century Israel dictates that she may face family disownment and public shame, marking her as a subject of gossip. Legally, pregnancy outside of marriage could lead to severe consequences, even death, highlighting that accepting this divine role comes with substantial risks and sacrifices.