When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. (Luke 2:17-19)
It’s hard to imagine all that young Mary experienced in the months after her angelic visitation and conception. As the child inside her continued to grow, she must have wondered what kind of man he would become.
From the scriptures, she knew of other miraculous births. There was Isaac, the promised son of Abraham and Sarah, Samson, whose mother is unnamed, and Samuel, born to Hannah after her anguished prayer in the Lord’s house. There was also Elizabeth, her relative, who had given birth to John just a few months before.
But Mary’s circumstances differed from all these others. They were barren and unable to conceive, although they longed to have children. Mary, on the other hand, was a young, unmarried virgin. Her child was not the result of her prayers for God to open a barren womb, but rather her willingness to serve her Lord. “I am the Lord’s servant,” was her response to Gabriel’s announcement, “May your word to me be fulfilled.” (Luke 1:38)
And God’s Word was fulfilled. She now gazed with wonder, not only on her firstborn son but at those who came to pay homage to the promised King of Israel. Mary “treasured” all these things. She also “pondered” them in her heart. “What does the future hold?” “How do I nurture and raise this special child?”
God often works in our lives in ways that evoke both wonder and, to be honest, worry. I’ve experienced both of these emotions, and I can tell you they are like oil and water - they don’t mix well, but they are an inevitable part of our journey of faith.
I’ve certainly experienced this strange mix in my life at times, and I expect some of you reading these devotionals are experiencing it right now. But as we look toward a new year, let’s never forget that whatever the future holds, God really does hold the future and our lives in His hands.
In Christ,
Dan
‘Tis the season to trust God for your future.
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Was reading my own journal I kept, conversations with God, when my children were babies today. I am grateful God brings us to the place as Believers in Jesus Christ where we at last have the faith to pray with Mary: Be it done unto me according to Your word, Lord. Merry Christmas Dan. Thank you for the daily gifts of these devotionals. Your wisdom is a treasure, and I thank God for your voice. 🙏