The Daily Blade | Episode #258: Kyle Thompson // Mary, Did You Know?
Hosts: Joby Martin & Kyle Thompson
Date: December 26, 2025
Episode Overview
This episode continues the week-long exploration of Christmas carols, focusing on the modern classic “Mary, Did You Know?” Hosts Joby Martin and Kyle Thompson dive deep into the song’s lyrics, unpacking their biblical roots and theological depth. Using passages from Luke 1, they reflect on what Mary may have truly grasped about her child, Jesus. The conversation is designed to encourage Christians to meditate on the wonder and mystery of the incarnation and to apply these insights devotionally.
Key Discussion Points & Insights
1. Background on “Mary, Did You Know?”
- Song Origins: Lyrics by Mark Lowry (1984), music by Buddy Green (1991)
- Popularization: Pentatonix’s viral version from their 2014 Christmas album gets special mention
“They might be the goats of Christmas music at this point.” —Kyle [00:39]
- The central question of the song: How much did Mary understand about her son’s divine mission?
2. Exploring Luke 1 and the Annunciation
- Setting the Scene: The angel Gabriel’s visit to Mary in Nazareth (Luke 1:26-33)
- Mary’s Initial Response:
“She was greatly troubled at the saying and tried to discern what sort of greeting this might be.” [01:15]
- Angels in scripture are intimidating; Gabriel’s message is initially confusing and overwhelming for Mary.
“Everywhere you read a description of an angel and what they look like, they seem really scary, really intimidating.” —Kyle [01:58]
- Mary’s question: “How will this be since I am a virgin?” underscores her confusion and lack of full understanding.
3. Dissecting the Lyrics of “Mary, Did You Know?”
- Verse Highlights:
- “Mary, did you know that your baby boy will one day walk on water?”
- “...will save our sons and daughters?”
- “...this child that you’ve delivered will soon deliver you.” [02:25]
- Bridge:
- “The blind will see, the deaf will hear, and the dead will live again...”
- Verse 3:
- “Mary, did you know that your baby boy is Lord of all creation?”
- “The sleeping child you’re holding is the great I am.”
- Theological Reflection:
- The hosts note that Mary could not have known all these specifics at the time:
“Well, to answer for her, she did not know all of that. I mean, certainly not then as we see recorded in Luke 1. How could she?” —Kyle [03:29]
- Yet, Mary’s faith and obedience are emphasized.
- The hosts note that Mary could not have known all these specifics at the time:
4. Mary’s Faithful Response and Role in Salvation History
- Luke 1:35-38: The angel explains the Holy Spirit’s role, and Mary submits:
“Behold, I am the servant of the Lord. Let it be to me according to your word.” [03:56]
- Mary is described as a sinner and normal woman, chosen by God for a pivotal role.
“She was part of God’s master rescue plan for all humanity.” —Kyle [04:05]
- Even as Jesus is born, Mary’s understanding remains partial, yet she is faithful in her calling and devotion.
- The hosts highlight the awe and gratitude appropriate for Christians reflecting on Christ’s humble beginnings and sacrificial purpose.
Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments
- On Mary’s Perspective:
“Her feelings would be justified, but her level of understanding would very likely be very low.” —Kyle [02:10]
- On Pentatonix and Christmas Music:
“They might be the goats of Christmas music at this point.” —Kyle [00:39]
- Summing Up the Song’s Question:
“Mary, a sinner, a normal woman, was selected by God to get this special revelation. And she was part of God’s master rescue plan for all humanity.” —Kyle [04:05]
- Powerful Closing Reflection:
“As she held her sleeping baby, she was holding Heaven’s perfect Lamb, an atoning sacrifice for us all. The great I Am.” —Kyle [04:15]
Timestamps for Key Segments
- 00:20 – Introduction to “Mary, Did You Know?” and song background
- 01:15 – Reading and unpacking Luke 1:26-33 (The Annunciation)
- 02:25 – Reciting and reflecting on song lyrics
- 03:29 – Did Mary really know? Hosts’ perspective and biblical basis
- 03:56 – Mary’s response (Luke 1:35-38) and faithfulness
- 04:05 – Mary’s role in God’s plan; theological wrap-up
Tone & Language
Friendly, devotional, and encouraging—Joby and Kyle speak directly to their listeners, nourishing faith and prompting contemplation on the miraculous story of Jesus’s birth through Mary’s eyes.
Summary prepared for The Daily Blade listeners and anyone seeking a rich, accessible Biblical reflection on “Mary, Did You Know?” and the faith of Mary.