After the angels leave with this great word from the Lord your reputation is questioned.  After a wonderful visit and gifts from the wise there are threats from imperial powers and you become a refugee in Egypt.  You have to make a new home in a new town.  Later there is a cross for your child, a sword to stick you in the heart.  After angels have departed and we have heard our word from the Lord there is still an unpredictable life to be faced and a faith to keep.

And Mary said, “Behold, the bondslave of the Lord; may it be done to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her. Luke 1:38 (NASB) 

You are reading from the book, “Staying on the Way”, by H. Lamar Smith