My sister Jill sent me this writing by Vivian Bricker. It lists 5 Reasons why "Jesus Chose Mary (and Chooses Us). Here is Reason #1:   Jesus Chose Mary Because of Her Obedience :Mary was a young virgin woman when she was carrying Jesus because it was a divine pregnancy and birth. Since Jesus was born of a virgin, He was not born with a sinful nature. The Lord chose Mary because of her obedience to Him and her willing heart. "Most of us would be afraid if an angel told us we would be carrying the Lord, yet Mary trusted the angel Gabriel and chose to be brave even though she would face ridicule from her family and friends for being pregnant before marriage. When Gabriel tells Mary she is chosen by God, she rejoices and sings praises to God. Luke 1:46-56  tells us Mary’s song,  “My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant. From now on all generations will call me blessed, for the Mighty One has done great things for me—holy is his name. His mercy extends to those who fear him, from generation to generation. He has performed mighty deeds with his arm; he has scattered those who are proud in their inmost thoughts. He has brought down rulers from their thrones but has lifted up the humble. He has filled the hungry with good things but has sent the rich away empty. He has helped his servant Israel, remembering to be merciful to Abraham and his descendants forever, just as he promised our ancestors.” "Through Mary’s obedience and the love she had for God, Jesus chose her. While we cannot be dogmatic over the main reason God chose Mary, we can know He had a great purpose behind His selection of Mary. Since Mary loved God and followed Him, this could be one of the reasons she was chosen." ****