Steven Goulstone is the pastor at Wellington South Baptist. This post is adapted from his sermon on 9 August 2026, part of the Renew Together series, the annual Arotahi appeal. You can listen to it on our church podcast here.
God often works through ordinary people who offer an imperfect but willing yes. In this message, we reflect on Mary’s courageous response to the angel’s unexpected announcement: “Let it be with me just as you have said.” Her yes was not careless or unthinking. Mary asked a wise question, recognised the uncertainty before her, and still chose to trust God.
Mary stands alongside other people of faith whose yes carried risk and complexity. Moses responded from insecurity. Hagar, seen by God amid profound vulnerability and abuse. Zechariah asked for assurance after disappointment and grief. Their stories remind us that faithful responses do not always look confident, immediate, or easy.
God’s invitation is not confined to dramatic callings or faraway places. God builds life through prayer, hospitality, generosity, justice, and everyday acts of courage. As a church family, we are exploring how to become a transformational family of Jesus in our community: one soaked in prayer, welcoming without judgement, and partnering with neighbours in what matters to them.
We may not know where our small experiments, gifts, or prayers will lead. But we can trust that God is already at work, inviting us to join in the work of renewal. Like Mary, our yes can become a lifelong response—one that carries Christ’s hope into our neighbourhood, our relationships, and our world.
Reflect
What might it look like for you to offer God a courageous yes in the life-building work already in front of you in this season?
