Luke 2:6-7
While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave
birth to her firstborn, a son. She [Mary] wrapped him in cloths and placed him
in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.
Bumping along on a lowly donkey, nine months pregnant, Mary prepared for the birth of her son, Jesus. She made the journey with her betrothed, Joseph, to the town of Bethlehem where they'd be counted and registered to pay taxes. Towards the end of a pregnancy, most women are mighty uncomfortable. I can't imagine riding a donkey on rough roads and bouncing around. But, Mary’s faith trumped her discomfort.
Womanhood
arrived early in Mary's day. History determines her to be anywhere from
fourteen to seventeen, a child in our culture. Yet her love for God matured and
grew in her few years. The angel who delivered the news that she'd give birth
to the Messiah, recognized this young woman's faith.
Mary, being
the faithful servant, accepted the angel's proclamation with grace and trust.
Trust plays
a huge part in Jesus' birth. Joseph trusted enough to wed Mary. The angel trusted God as he delivered his
messages. The shepherds trusted the angels and ran to see the baby. And Mary
trusted God with the glorious phenomenon of Jesus' birth.
As Mary
bumped along, I can't imagine the discomfort. But she moved forward as God
called her. She birthed the baby in a stable, most likely a cave where the
animals were fed and watered. Hopefully, she had clean straw and fresh water. Regardless,
Mary welcomed her child with joy that night.
As you think
about the troubles of life, the inconveniences, the losses, the illness, think
about Mary. In her discomfort and what was likely a troubled time for her, she
moved forward with trust and faith. Regardless of what's behind us, let's keep
our eyes on Jesus and celebrate the joy of this season.
Stop for a
few moments and breathe in the spirit of the season. Capture the essence of joy
Jesus brought to us. Then breathe out and share his hope.
No comments:
Post a Comment
Thank you for stopping by. I review all comments then post them.