December 27
"But Mary kept all these things, pondering them in her heart. And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, as it had been told them." -Luke 2:19-20 (RSV)
Have you ever "pondered" something in your heart? It can be a time of reflection, struggle, and searching after overwhelming changes and challenge. Mary must have been surprised or even shocked that a group of scruffy, dirty, disreputable shepherds appeared at her bedside after giving birth to her first born son that now lay in a manger. The surroundings weren't glamorous and the visitors weren't popular but the fact remained the Messiah had been born. Angels announced it. Shepherds witnessed it. Prophets foretold it. Joseph supported it. God enabled it. We can only imagine the many emotions, feelings, and thoughts that flooded Mary's heart and soul. Her pondering must have included thoughts about how to protect this vulnerable child but it also must have led to many questions about the days ahead and fears about tomorrow. Yet we know Mary was never cowardly or fearful in her actions. She must have finally embraced both her purpose and her son's destiny with the same faith, courage, and peace that had brought her this far.
What about us? Have you ever pondered in your heart what Jesus birth as the Messiah means for your life? What do you hope for from his appearance? Some Jews then hoped the Messiah would free them from Roman rule. Others hoped he would free them from poverty and pain. But Jesus did far more by bringing the foundations of God's Kingdom into our dark world. Jesus has also given you the gift of Peace in the midst of conflict and the gift of Hope in the midst of hopelessness. He has not only granted the gift of Peace to those of "Good Will" but offers you the gift of Joy by freeing humanity from death and sin. His gifts to you are far greater than imaginable. Christ's birth has opened the way to Peace with God, others, and ourselves. He offers you far more than temporary political changes. Jesus birth offers you the gift of a new life filled with God's protective love that will last for eternity!
Prayer: Jesus, Thank you for so many priceless gifts. Amen.
Meditation For The Day: Pondering God's gifts expands our heart!
Brief Devotions For Busy Lives: Daily Winter Renewal Paperback – November 25, 2017, by Rev. Dr. Mary Johnson (Author)
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