Mary’s story is a reminder that God often chooses ordinary people for extraordinary purposes. When the angel announced that she would bear God’s Son, Mary was understandably greatly troubled and wondered about the future. The angel assured her, “The Lord is with you” and “God’s favor is upon you.” When Mary understandably asked, “How can this be” the angel responded, “The Holy Spirit is within you” and “The Most High is over you.” Although we are not in the unique place of Mary, these words still echo through the ages to each of us. As part of worship, we often say “The Lord is with you” along with the response “And also with you!” “The Lord’s favor be with you” or “God bless you and keep you” are words of blessing often used in worship. Jesus assured the disciples and each of us the Holy Spirit would be within us and the Most High is over us, guiding our path, lighting our way. The last words of the angel echo so beautifully through time, “For nothing is impossible with God.” Mary teaches us that faith is not the absence of questions—faith is trusting God even when the questions remain. She didn’t know how everything would unfold, but she knew Who was asking her to trust. Her surrender was not passive but courageous. It was the quiet strength of a heart that believed God’s promises were bigger than her fears. Christmas invites us into the same posture of trust. Like Mary, we may face unknowns, unexpected turns, or overwhelming responsibilities. But the God who spoke to Mary still speaks peace into our lives today: “The Lord is with you.” The path ahead was uncertain for Mary, and the cost would be great. Yet her response remains one of the most beautiful declarations of faith in Scripture:
(verse of the week)
“Here am I, the servant of the Lord; let it be with me according to your word” (Luke 1:38)
This is a great response for each of us as well. “Here am I” wondering but willing. “Servants of the Lord”. And in great faith and humility: “Let it be according to your word.” As Paul McCartney and John Lennon penned so long ago, the words that echo Mary’s prayerful answer, “In my hour of darkness, Mother Mary comes to me, speaking words of wisdom, ‘Let it be, Let it be . . .’” May we also find the path to peace even as Mary did, by following the path God has for us, wondering but willing, whispering “Let it be, let it be . . .”
PrayerLord, give me Mary’s courage to trust You even when I do not understand your plans. Help me to say “yes” to Your calling with a willing heart, knowing that You are with me and Your grace will sustain me. Let my life reflect Your presence and Your promise. Amen.
Quote of the Week“God never asks for a perfect plan—only a willing heart.”
Have a great week!--Dr TJ
Listen to recent sermons by Dr. TJ Jenney YouTube & YouTube
Podcast on Spotify: Inspire Messages
http://inspiresundaymessages.blogspot.com
(verse of the week)
“Here am I, the servant of the Lord; let it be with me according to your word” (Luke 1:38)
This is a great response for each of us as well. “Here am I” wondering but willing. “Servants of the Lord”. And in great faith and humility: “Let it be according to your word.” As Paul McCartney and John Lennon penned so long ago, the words that echo Mary’s prayerful answer, “In my hour of darkness, Mother Mary comes to me, speaking words of wisdom, ‘Let it be, Let it be . . .’” May we also find the path to peace even as Mary did, by following the path God has for us, wondering but willing, whispering “Let it be, let it be . . .”
PrayerLord, give me Mary’s courage to trust You even when I do not understand your plans. Help me to say “yes” to Your calling with a willing heart, knowing that You are with me and Your grace will sustain me. Let my life reflect Your presence and Your promise. Amen.
Quote of the Week“God never asks for a perfect plan—only a willing heart.”
Have a great week!--Dr TJ
Listen to recent sermons by Dr. TJ Jenney YouTube & YouTube
Podcast on Spotify: Inspire Messages
http://inspiresundaymessages.blogspot.com
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