<p>2:21 <i>And after eight days, when he was circumcised, his name was called Jesus, which name was given by the angel before he was conceived in the womb</i>- The obedient naming of John as John rather than Zacharias no doubt encouraged Mary to be likewise obedient. For her son too had been given a name by an Angel before His birth. Our acts of obedience are likewise encouraged by our fellowship with other believers in similar situations who have likewise been obedient and responsive to God's word. We note the chronology; Mary's conception came<i> after</i> the Angel appeared to her. Presumably the conception only began after she had demonstrated her belief and desire to partner with God in this profound plan.&nbsp; <i>&nbsp;</i></p>