We start to ask a lot of questions about our life. How did the year go? What about next year? How is my health? Where do I stand with my job situation? What about this family or friend relationship? How is my parenting? What are the questions you’re asking? Behind all these questions are bigger questions, what we’re really asking is “Where do I stand with myself, other, and really God?” Am I significant? Is God near? What is my purpose? God seems distant there is a gap. I feel insignificant in the scope of the world or history. This impacts our sense of purpose. It can lead us toward a downward spiral. Then we see Mary, a young woman, in a forgotten rural town, pledged to be married to a local carpenter who has an angelic visit and gives birth to Jesus. When we think of Mary, we often think of nativity scenes or Christmas carols. We either saint her and for some even worship her or make too little of her. She is significant and in her story we find a picture of God’s grace needed, given, received, spread, and responded to, that is for us too!