One of the most controversial doctrines held by much of the Christian church is the Doctrine of the Virgin Birth. Today we focused some of our attention on it as we toured the Church of the Annunciation in Nazareth. While the current structure only dates back to 1959 it was built on a site that has been used by Christians to commemorate the life of Jesus since the first century.
Roman Catholics and Eastern Orthodox Christians have place a great deal more emphasis on Mary than we Protestants. That has been, for the most part, our loss. For while we might not be comfortable elevating Mary to such a high position (Queen of Heaven) as our Roman Catholic sisters and brothers, what we know of Mary is worth emulating. For whether or not we believe in a literal virgin birth, the simple fact that she was willing to take on the risks that came with her role simply because who was called to do so by God makes her praiseworthy.
But Mary is confusing for most Protestants, and certainly for most of our Jewish brothers and sisters. The various theological doctrines that have developed around her--immaculate conception, virgin birth, assumption, and so on--have only muddied the waters for those who are unwilling or unable to affirm something simply because it is declared to be true. Maybe we would do well to strip away such doctrines and look at things like the wisdom of Mary as she raises this unusual child, the patience of Mary as she tries to keep pace with his wandering lifestyle, the courage of Mary as she watches him be crucified. These are traits we can all seek to emulate.
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The "we" in these Israel blogs! A really wonderful group of Jews and Christians! This photo taken at Caesarea today after our time in Nazareth.
The photo at the beginning of today's blog is of an icon displayed at the spot where the Annunciation is said to have happened.
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