December 19th

When the angel first appeared to Mary, she was afraid. 

When the angel said she would be a mother, she questioned how that could happen. 

When she was told she would be the mother of the Savior, surely she would again be afraid. 

Or, at the very least, she would once again ask, “How?”  

But neither of those responses were repeated. Instead, we read:

“I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered. “May your word to me be fulfilled.” Then the angel left her.
Luke 1:38

Mary responded with belief. Acceptance. Readiness. 

How would you have responded if God had chosen you to be a part of the first Christmas. Mary was afraid and certainly didn’t understand the gift she was given. But she trusted God enough to say, “I will honor you with it.” 

Take a moment to consider the opportunities in front of you right now. Opportunities to speak to your friend about Jesus. Opportunities to sacrifice something you want to give someone else something they need. Opportunities to serve. To lead. To take a step of faith. This Christmas, give God the gift of obedience.