Page:PracticalCommentaryOnHolyScripture.djvu/432



IX months  later,  the  angel  Gabriel  was  sent  from  God  to  a virgin  living  in  a city  of  Galilee,  called  Nazareth (Fig.  61, p.  386). The virgin’s  name  was  Mary,  and  she  was  espoused  to  a man called Joseph,  and  they  both  belonged  to  the  house  of  David. The angel  being  come  in,  said  to  her:  “Hail,  full  of  grace ,  the Lord is  with  thee ;  blessed  art  thou  among  women.”

Mary, hearing  these  words,  was  disturbed  and  troubled,  wondering what  this  strange  salutation  meant. But the  angel  spoke again: “Fear not,  Mary,  for  thou  hast  found  grace  with  God. Behold, thou  shalt  conceive  in  thy  womb,  and  bring  forth  a son, and thou  shalt  call  His  name  Jesus. He shall  be  great,  and  shall