The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us.
John 1:14 (NIV)
It’s almost time!
The decorations are up, the shopping is done, and the sought after holiday recipes are waiting to be enjoyed. Smiling, taking a break, I gaze at the bright lights, and begin to recall the history behind each ornament on the tree.
From the popsicle stick Rudolph, to the fingerprint snowmen, to the paint worn Santa Claus passed down through the generations, each unique creation contains a memory all its own.
As my eyes fall upon the white ceramic figures of Mary and the Christ child, my thoughts are quickly transported to a much more distant time.
No longer confused or afraid after the angel Gabriel’s visit, the virgin Mary knew what she must do (Luke 1: 26: 38).
A hardworking, ordinary young girl, (perhaps much like you and I as average teens), she emerged confident and collected.
Humble and prayerful, Mary was willing to submit to God’s plan to help usher in a spiritual kingdom.
Full of grace, favored by the Father, (Luke 1: 28) she rejoiced in God her Savior (Luke 1:47). Mother Mary’s obedience, faithfulness, and humility spoke volumes.
Mary, gentle and mild, would give birth to the Christ child.
Called and chosen Mary’s, “yes,” brought Jesus into the world as a vulnerable babe to transform your life and mine.
“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 8: 9).
God’s Wondrous Gift of Love became visible through Jesus.
“The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us” (John 1: 14).
From the stable to the foot of the cross, she was there. Mary was an eyewitness throughout her Son’s ministry.
Like the young Mary, you and I have times when we, too, are lonely, fearful, and confused.
Like Mary, through the miracle of Jesus, we, too, can hope. Believe. Support one another . Endure and ultimately surrender by trusting God in all things.
Love made visible changes everything.
Like Mary, we have Jesus.
Come now, my sweet sister, let’s pray.
Loving God,
I praise you and thank you for the gift of your Son, Jesus. For those times when I can’t see the tinsel through my tears, may I remember you, Father, and the Hope that was born that first Christmas night. May I rejoice in you for the gift of our Savior, Jesus Christ. For He will forever be, “our Wonderful Counselor, Mighty lasting Father, Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9: 6).
Amen.
Thank you so much for being here, my friend.
In closing, please know that as we celebrate God’s gift to the world, that I am thanking him for the gift of you!
Until next time…
May the Spirit of God lead you, the Word of God sustain you, and the promises of God grant you the gift of everlasting peace.
Sending you and yours much joy and love this Christmas...
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Sue Dick, Author of Nourish Your Soul: 7 Secrets for Women Seeking Peace
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