Mary

Mary

     I’ve always felt a special affinity for Mary.  Yes, we all embrace and honor her as the mother of Jesus—but I always felt like I could relate to her, personally.  Perhaps it’s because I was also “great with child” with my first son, due the end of December, 31 years ago.  Whether Jesus was or wasn’t born on or near December 25^th isn’t the point.  But I could relate to her fatigue, her anxiety, her anticipation; after all, she was a young woman!  I could picture how uncomfortable she felt, even though I couldn’t begin to imagine riding on the back of a donkey that late in the game.  Did she feel discouragement when a suitable place to stay couldn’t be found?  Did she miss having her mom there, to coach her and comfort her?  How much more she depended on Joseph. 

     However, knowing what she knew, that she was going to deliver the Son of God, I want to imagine she had a sense of purpose, and trust, and peace.

      What are you anticipating this Christmas season?

     Maybe you are experiencing some feelings of holiday stress, anxiety, or even discouragement.  Maybe you’re feeling great joy and excitement.  Wherever you’re at in the emotional spectrum, like Mary, take a moment and consider that we, too, are expecting baby Jesus.  He is our purpose.  He is who we trust.  And He is who gives us peace. 

Merry Christmas and may God bless you