In college I took a literature class in which the professor taught that in the most pessimistic literature throughout history, across many cultures, there’s often a baby born near the end of the story. The birth signified hope for troubled times and for the future.

As Christmas approaches, I am reminded of Mary -- an unmarried pregnant teenager. Her pregnancy created enormous difficulties, but also presented her with enormous divine possibilities because God was at work in her. When the angel appeared to Mary and explained that she was going to become pregnant with the Son of God, she didn’t understand virgin birth any more than we do. Yet she responded in faith, “I am the Lord’s servant, may it be to me as you have said.”

Mary’s trust in God brought hope to us all.