Why is it significant that Mary was favored by God?

Mary being favored by God, as described in Luke 1:28, serves as a powerful testimony to God's grace and His sovereign choice in salvation. While she was indeed highly favored, it is essential to recognize that this favor was not due to any inherent merit or righteousness within her; rather, it was solely an act of God's grace. This is similar to how all believers are viewed in Christ as recipients of God's grace. Mary's declaration in Luke 1:46-49 that her soul magnifies the Lord demonstrates the proper response to grace, acknowledging God as her Savior. This moment in salvation history points forward to the grace given to all of God's elect, reinforcing the doctrine that salvation is entirely an act of God’s mercy and grace.