Thursday, December 4, 2008

Mary

Joseph and his betrothed, Mary traveled to Bethlehem--a week’s journey away from their hometown of Nazareth. Caesar Augustus, the Roman Emperor decreed a census be taken of all lands under his control. Under this edict every male adult had to travel back to his birthplace to register and pay taxes.

Mary knew her time drew near. In spite of this, she made the journey with Joseph. Their chosen route probably bypassed Samaria, lengthening their trip. The ‘highways’ were mere footpaths through the mountains. She rode a donkey for a week until they arrived at Bethlehem. While they traveled, they slept on the ground.

When they arrived in Bethlehem, all the rooms were taken. The best they could find was a stable--a stable. No one assisted her in the birth. Strangers came to see her baby. These strangers ranged from the poorest shepherds to kings of foreign countries.

Through all these days, Mary had to trust God for the outcome. Early on she vowed herself His handmaid--His servant. God’s Word tells us Mary kept her vow until the end of her son’s life.

Monday, December 1, 2008

Viewing The Pronouncement

(Luke 1:26-38)


Mary heard the words from the angelic visitor. But, at first, she didn’t understand them. How many times do we hear words from an authority and don’t comprehend them.

When Mary didn’t understand the message, the angel shared with her the news of Elizabeth, her relative, who was beyond the normally-thought-of age of child-bearing. Elizabeth and her husband were going to be parents.

In our lives, we may or may not choose to seek more information. We might study the data before making an informed decision or we close our minds to other possibilities. Mary chose to exercise her faith. She surrendered her will to God became His servant.

When we have choices to make, do we listen to authorities and yield to their guidance/direction or do we choose to go our own way? Mary could have said “No!” But she didn’t. And for this we give thanks.

God Alone

  Jesus and the children at our church's prayer walk.          I will both lie down in peace and sleep;  For You alone, O LORD make ...