DifferentkindofChristian-Fred (@DifferentkindofChristian)

Mother Mary, from a protestant point of view. Mary is the most honored saint and the mother of God. She deserves veneration, honor, respect, and devotion: yes, distinct from worship, which is reserved for God alone. She is given the highest form of veneration given to any creature. “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord.” The Gospels portray her as blessed and favored by God (Luke 1:28, 42–48). Elizabeth calls her “the mother of my Lord.” Protestants honor Mary as the mother of Jesus and a model of faith, and Mary is venerated because of her unparalleled closeness to Christ, her pivotal role in the Incarnation and Redemption, her exemplary holiness, and her continuing maternal care for the Church. For millions of Christians, devotion to her is a natural expression of love for the family of God and gratitude for the woman God chose to bear His Son. Mary trusted God's plan even when she did not fully understand it. At the Annunciation, she accepted the angel's message with faith, saying, “Let it be done to me according to your word” And who cannot venerate this young woman’s humility and obedience as she recognized that all blessings came from God, not from her own merit. In the Magnificat (Luke 1:46–55), she praises God rather than herself. She is traditionally honored for her purity of heart, mind, and body, reflecting complete devotion to God. And she endured many trials, including the flight into Egypt and witnessing Jesus' suffering and crucifixion. She demonstrated courage as she faced difficult circumstances with steadfastness, trusting God amid danger and sorrow. And she remained hopeful in God's promises, even during times of confusion and grief, and Mary remained faithful throughout Jesus' life, ministry, death, and resurrection. Scripture notes that Mary "pondered" the events surrounding Jesus in her heart (Luke 2:19, 2:51), reflecting a deep spiritual attentiveness. This little handmaid of the Lord inspires me above all women and this young maid, more pure and holy than any other, chosen by God, though she is but a woman, and no one is perfect, she embodied Christ-likeness like no other. I'm fully aware some denominations elevate her more than most protestants, but this is what I see in the Bible.