Prelude to the Christmas Story
Many know the biblical story of Archangel Gabriel announcing to the young Mary, “Don’t be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. Behold, you will conceive in your womb and give birth to a son, and shall name him ‘Jesus.’ He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High.” [WEB Luke 1:30-32]. However, few know the full story of what led up to that point, which was so beautifully told through the channeling of Edgar Cayce. For me, this is such an inspiring and fascinating story that I’ve made it a habit for many years to read it each Christmas season. It’s that time of year again, so please allow me to show you the more fulsome picture as it unfolded so many years ago.
According to Edgar Cayce (specifically, the 5749 Reading series), Mary was born to Anna and Joachim who belonged to the Essene sect. In recognition of her spiritual destiny, they gave the 4-year-old Mary over to service in the Essene Temple (located at the School of the Prophets at Mt Carmel). Mary was one of twelve such maidens to be prepared as a possible channel for the prophesied Messiah. In fact, “Essene” meant “expectancy,” since they worked for generations to prepare the pathway. In the temple service, the twelve maidens were trained in physical, mental, and spiritual purity, as well as the prophesies related to the Messiah.
When Mary was between 12-13, the time had come for the choice of which maiden would be the channel. When all the maidens climbed the temple steps toward the altar for morning prayers, the sunrise illuminated the whole scene in a purple and gold hue. As Mary reached the top step, a shadow passed over Mary alone, and there was thunder and lightening. Archangel Gabriel then appeared and led her to the altar. These were the indicators of choosing, leaving no doubt about the divine will of who would be the channel for the Blessed One.
I love the beauty and holiness of the scene, and I often wonder what Mary must have felt at that time. While she had received years of preparatory training, did she really have any idea of the extreme joys, the weight of such responsibility, or the inconceivable hardship and heartache that she would have to bear? How can one not be filled with awe? I am humbled just thinking about it, and for me, it is now an inextricable part of the Christmas story.
This story and many others like it will be covered in an upcoming 6-part Council of Love eCourse on Yeshua and the Magdalena. Starting on January 25, 2025 and running through 5 April 2025, on alternate Saturdays, Jennifer Donaldson and I will walk through the inspired lives and timeless message of these two Ascended Masters, as told through many traditions and channeled sources, not the least of which is Linda Dillon, author of The Jesus Book. Beyond what happened in the past, they are still present and continue to teach us today! Please consider joining us for what will no doubt be inspiring, thought provoking, and fun!
