Find a quiet spot and listen to Mary’s own words, recorded by Luke, a priceless gift for us this Christmas.

TODAY’S TREASURE

Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel (which means, God with us).

— Matthew 1:23 ESV

 

Dear Friends,

Soon we will start putting away the Christmas decorations, sweeping up pine needles, maybe throwing out leftover sweets, determine to keep our New Year’s resolution to avoid sugar. Before we do, let’s take some time to sit at the feet of Mary, the mother of Jesus. Mary, perhaps the best known of the “midwives of the Messiah” speaks to us from the vantage point of old age. Events that mystified her now make sense. Her youthful love and total trust in her God has deepened. When I think of Mary as an old woman, I think of someone like Elisabeth Elliot, a no-nonsense faithful servant of God who poured out her life teaching others to walk by faith, to trust God no matter how difficult the way, because He is good and perfectly faithful.

As you read Luke 1 and 2, recognize that Mary herself is Luke’s source for his information. What a perfect way to arrive at the manger during Christmas. 

Treasured by Him,

Sharon

 

LIFE-GIVING ENCOURAGEMENT

 

Refresh your memory of her story with these options:

Read Luke 1-2

Read Harlots and Heroines, The Midwives of the Messiah Chapter 5

 

As always, you can dig into Mary’s story as much or as little as your life allows. Allow Mary to take her place as an older woman passing on to you some of her wisdom and love for her Savior. Her story will encourage you to soak in the promise of God’s presence as we journey these last few days into Christmas.