Unexpected Grace: Mary Christmas

Unexpected Grace: Mary Christmas | Gareth Nicholson | 21 December 2025

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Matthew opens the New Testament with Jesus’ genealogy — a family tree filled with scandal, brokenness, and grace. Unexpectedly, women are named: Tamar, Rahab, Ruth… and finally Mary.

Mary:

• Likely 13 years old

• From Nazareth — a nowhere town

• Poor, unknown, without status

• Chosen by God to carry the Messiah

Human opinion saw scandal. God saw purpose.

Truth #1: No One Is a Nobody

From a human perspective, Mary was insignificant. From God’s perspective, she was chosen.

• God does not measure worth by background, wealth, or reputation.

• Every person is created in the image of God.

• In Christ, ordinary people step into royalty.

You are not a nobody from nowhere in God’s eyes.

Truth #2: People’s Opinions Change — God’s Does Not

Mary was judged, doubted, and talked about — even by Joseph initially. Later, opinions changed.

• Human opinions are unstable and externally driven.

• God’s opinion of you is constant: loved, accepted, favored.

• Living for people’s approval leads to insecurity.

• Living from God’s approval brings freedom.

Don’t let the opinions of people set the agenda for your life.

Truth #3: God’s Grace, Not Our Goodness

Mary was not sinless or perfect — she calls God her Savior (Luke 1:47).

• Grace is unearned.

• God’s work in your life is not based on your track record.

• Comparison kills joy and distorts calling.

• Failure does not disqualify you when grace defines you.

You are part of God’s story because of His goodness, not yours.

Truth #4: Worship God — Not the Gift

Mary’s story also warns us of a trap.

• God uses ordinary people in extraordinary ways.

• Over time, people may elevate the vessel instead of the source.

• Worshipping people destroys both the worshiper and the one being worshiped.

• Mary was blessed — but never meant to be worshiped nor prayed to.

  
  

There is:

One God and one mediator between God and mankind — Jesus Christ (1 Timothy 2:5)

You don’t need another person to reach God.👉 You have direct access to the Father through Jesus.

Reminder

Jesus:

• Came as the Son of Abraham (blessing)

• Came as the Son of David (king)

• Lived a sinless life

• Died in our place

• Rose again to begin a new creation

Access to God is not based on your performance — but on Jesus’ finished work.

As we move into the new year:

• Remember: You matter

• You are loved, chosen, and valued

• You have a unique role in God’s kingdom story

• Don’t waste your life fearing opinions or idolizing people

• Walk with confidence, humility, and faith