“And Mary said: “My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,”

(Luke 1:46-46/NKJV)

     During my devotions this morning, I was reminded of the song Mary sang when her cousin Elizabeth celebrated her arrival and offered her a blessing, saying, “Blessed is she who believed…” Mary’s song of praise declared, “My soul glorifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior.”

     It is easy to see why Elizabeth could believe in miracles, such as a virgin giving birth to the Messiah, especially since she herself was experiencing a miraculous situation: she was pregnant in her old age! Luke 1:41 tells us that Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit, which reinforced her faith. However, what truly captivates me about Mary is her undeniable and unwavering faith in the unknown path that lay ahead.

     Take a moment to reflect… When a woman faces a difficult challenge, she may have faith that God is by her side, but it provides additional reassurance when a sister in Christ affirms her, encourages her, and surrounds her with prayers. Do you have that Christ-like friend? Are you an encouragement to your sisters in Christ?

     The only thing Mary knew for certain was that an angel visited her and told her she would give birth to Jesus. Her response was, “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord: may it be done to me according to your word.” (Luke 1:38, AMP). She received no further instructions. My heart’s desire is that when God tells me to do something, I won’t question, “Why?” or “How?” or “When?” or “Where?” I simply want to say, “Yes, Lord, whatever You ask, I will do.”

     When the angels informed Mary that her cousin, Elizabeth, was also expecting a child and due soon, Mary went with haste to visit her. Fast forward to the time after Jesus’ birth, when the angels appeared to the shepherds who were watching over their flock.

“Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. Then the angel said to them, Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord…

And they came with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the Babe lying in a manger.” (Luke 2:8-11, 16).

When something exciting is about to happen or has already happened, you don’t dilly-dally; you rush out to see what all the fireworks are about. Just like the shepherds who encountered the angels, “And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host!”!!! My son cannot run because he was born with legs that extend outward, but when he sees something that excites him, you better believe he wobbles as fast as he can to get to it.

     What excites you this Christmas? Is it the beautiful trees and sparkling lights? Or is it the stacks of brightly colored presents under the tree? What about the parades, pageants, light displays, and Christmas performances? What makes you dress up, bundle up, and rush out with enthusiasm? …with haste?

In this moment of history, there are many people like Mary and the shepherds, who are poor. Others are broken, homeless, and without family. I pray that they, and you, will look beyond the glitter and gold to honor and glorify God. Let us, with haste, actively and urgently make His greatness known through our lives. This year, and every day after, let us celebrate the gift of Jesus and His salvation. Celebrate the King!

“And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying: Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!” (Luke 2:13-14)

Merry Christmas and a Blessed New Year!