Mary, the mother of Jesus, occupies a central place in the Christmas story and in the Christian faith. Her role in the Nativity goes beyond that of a mere biblical character: she is a universal model of faith, humility and obedience to God. Through her "yes" at the Annunciation and her unwavering devotion throughout her life, she embodies fundamental values for believers. This article explores Mary's role in the Christmas story, her place in the Christian faith, and the lessons she teaches us today.

Mary in the Christmas story

The Annunciation: an exceptional act of faith:

The Christmas story truly begins with the Annunciation, when the angel Gabriel appears to Mary to announce that she will be the mother of the Son of God (Luke 1:26-38). Mary, a young woman from Nazareth, received shocking news: she would conceive by the action of the Holy Spirit and give birth to a child who would be called "Son of the Most High". Faced with this extraordinary announcement, Mary responded with humility and faith: "Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord; let it be done to me according to your word". (Luke 1:38) This act of faith marks the beginning of the Incarnation. By freely accepting the mission that God entrusts to her, Mary becomes an essential instrument of the divine plan for the salvation of humanity.

The Visitation: a testimony of service and joy: 

Not long after the Annunciation, Mary visits her cousin Elizabeth, who is also expecting a child, John the Baptist (Luke 1:39-56). This episode, called the Visitation, highlights Mary's service and generosity. Despite her own extraordinary situation, she goes to Elizabeth to help her. When they meet, Elizabeth exclaims, "Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb." (Luke 1:42) Mary responds with the Magnificat, a hymn of praise in which she expresses her gratitude to God and celebrates his work in the world.

The birth of Jesus in Bethlehem:

In Luke's account, Mary and Joseph travel to Bethlehem to be enumerated, in accordance with the decree of the Emperor Augustus. It is there that Jesus is born, in a stable, as there was no room in the inn (Luke 2:1-7). Mary wrapped the Baby Jesus in swaddling clothes and laid him in a manger, symbolising her maternal love and humility. She welcomes the shepherds and magi who have come to adore the Child, while pondering in her heart the extraordinary events surrounding his birth (Luke 2:19).

Mary's spiritual qualities

Unshakeable faith: Mary is above all a model of faith. When she accepts the angel's announcement, she does so without fully understanding the implications of her mission. She relied entirely on her trust in God and his promise. Even in the face of challenges, such as the birth of Jesus in modest circumstances or the flight to Egypt to escape Herod's threat, Mary remains faithful to her role and her faith.

Exemplary humility: Mary's humility shines through at every stage of her life. Although she is chosen to be the mother of the Son of God, she presents herself as the "handmaid of the Lord". This humility does not diminish her greatness; on the contrary, it magnifies it. It shows that true greatness lies in surrender to the divine will and in service to others.

A life of contemplation:  Mary is often described in the Gospels as a woman who "pondered all these things in her heart" (Luke 2:19). She took time to reflect on the events she experienced, to seek their meaning and to offer them to God in prayer.

The role of Mary in the Christmas story

Bearer of the hope of salvation: 

By agreeing to become the mother of Jesus, Mary becomes a central figure in the story of salvation. She carries within her the hope of redemption and makes it accessible to the world through the birth of her Son.

Model of motherhood:

Mary embodies motherhood in its purest and most spiritual dimension. She watches over Jesus with love and devotion, while fully respecting his divine mission. Her example inspires not only mothers, but all those who wish to live relationships marked by love, patience and self-giving.

Intercessor for humanity:

In the Christian tradition, Mary is also seen as a powerful intercessor. As the mother of Jesus, she is close to him and pleads on behalf of humanity. Her role in the Nativity underlines her closeness to the humble and excluded, whom she continues to support through her prayer and intercession.

The importance of Mary in the Christian faith today

An inspiration to believers:

Mary remains a universal figure of inspiration. Her faith, humility and unconditional love for God and his Son Jesus Christ show the way to an authentic Christian life.

An invitation to love and peace:

By contemplating Mary's role in the Christmas story, believers are invited to live these same values in their own lives. Christmas becomes an opportunity to renew their faith, strengthen family ties and engage in actions of peace and brotherhood.