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Devotional by Lynn Marie Kohm.

Image: In preparation for their wedding, brides in first-century Israel would immerse themselves in a water bath (mikveh) for ritual purification. Mikveh symbolizes the womb, the grave, and surrender to the Lord. In Jewish law, mikveh is used during the process of conversion. Some Old Testament passages refer to the Messiah as the “Mikveh of Israel” (cf. Jeremiah 17:13).

If we are really honest with ourselves we would agree that it is absolutely astounding to consider a supernatural pregnancy. Whether it’s in Scripture or in Star Wars, it is astounding at least. But let’s take a deep dive not into the biology but into the cultural why. A woman of purity is generally esteemed. One who remains a virgin until marriage is a model of purity. This aspect is not only highly esteemed, prized, and valued by her own person, but by her pending husband, her entire family, and her community. That is true in Middle Eastern cultures even today, as a woman who has lost by choice or been robbed of her virginity by rape is often cruelly cast-off from her family and community. Imagine how much more exponentially true this cultural more was at the time of Christ’s birth. Virginity’s value was supreme.

Cherished purity was not only highlighted by this prophecy but of course appeared to be absolutely impossible when a woman was with child. Who in the world would have expected this prophecy to come to fruition? Yet Mary’s pregnancy nonetheless does just that, and it became not only a personal and marital focus for her and her fiancé Joseph, but of severe societal attention for their community, and for their families. This unwed pregnancy warranted disgrace at best, or ultimately stoning until Joseph protects her.

So when Matthew put together these pieces of the puzzle, it all came amazingly into perfect focus. A stand-alone piece of prophecy is revealed to be the crux of every hope. Indeed, the Messiah is born of a virgin. Astounding—precious—pure— and true.