Christmas is upon us. This is the time of year we celebrate the birth of Jesus. Mary didn’t do anything special to receive this honor of becoming the mother of the promised Messiah. She didn’t come from wealth, power or position, just a simple humble teenager. Mary was troubled at the words the angel told her, “Greetings, you who are highy favored! The Lord is with you.” (Luke 1:28,29) The angel said for her not to be afraid. She had found favor with God. She was going to conceive the Son of the Most High and he would reign forever, Mary asks, “How can this be since I am a virgin?” (Luke 1:34) Her response? “I am the Lord’s servant. May your word to me be fulfilled.” (Luke 1:38) What? I dont’ think I would have accepted the news just like that. She had to know this would bring trouble to Joseph, her family and the town. It wasn’t going to look so good for Mary and the road ahead would be difficult. I can just imagine once she started to show the tsk tsk’s, snickers and judging.
Yet, Mary said she was the Lord’s servant. She humbly accepted this gift. Her soul glorified the Lord and rejoiced (Luke 1:46-55). Jesus later during his ministry said he came to serve, not be served (Matthew 20:28). God calls us to serve one another in love (Galations 5:13).
May we not get so caught up in the Christmas festivities of making cookies, shopping, going to holiday parties, cleaning the house, opening presents that we miss what God has called us to do: to be his servant. How can I be his servant through the Christmas festivities?
May I open myself up, like Mary, to allow God to work in me and to act according to his good purposes (Philippians 2:13). God can use ordinary people that are available to do extraordinary things. As William Carey said,
“Expect great things from God, attempt great things for God.”
Joy to the world! The Lord is come. Let earth receive her King! Let very heart prepare Him room.
Make room for Christ this Christmas. Be His servant.
On the journey,
Trish