The angel Gabriel visited young Mary and declared her highly favored by the Sovereign Lord. Even though this holy presence terrified her, she stayed put and listened to the marvelous news: the LORD was going to make a baby in her. He would be called the Son of the Most High, the Savior of the World.

Notice how she responded once she realized the potential of her condition — that she would be pregnant at 14 and unwed! She declared, “May it be to me as you have said.” Mary was one courageous young woman!

Notice something equally important: God waited for Mary’s response. The Heavenly Father waited for her to choose this attitude of yielding.  The Holy Spirit did not overshadow  Mary UNTIL SHE GAVE HER CONSENT.   She was free to refuse or accept God’s favor.  This free choice is integral to her humanity.

Each of us has a choice to make: do you want God’s way or not?   Do you want the Holy Spirit to have free rein in your souls or not?  God will not force his Presence on you.  Notice my choice of the word “rein.” It usually  means the strap that controls the bit on the bridle of a horse to steer the beast in the direction the master chooses. I could have written, "free reign”.  In this case, “reign” means one has authority over another, or exercises ruling power.  Do you want the LORD to having ruling power over you?   It’s your choice.   If you say “no”, you might hear your Heavenly Father crying.