Luke's telling of the Christmas story is a message of hope. Drawing from the work of Alexander Shaia's interpretation of this gospel, we hear Luke's voice saying, "When you think there is no turnaround, keep going."
When Mary is told she is going to have a child, she is the picture of grace and acceptance. She is receptive and open to the experience. She doesn't worry or question the angel---she knows. When we share in Mary's sense of knowing---which is stronger than faith or belief---we can keep going even when we are cast out or going through difficulties. We are all pregnant with the Christ.