Christmas, the most wonderful time of the year, is here.  As exciting as Christmas time can be, it always seems to come and go so fast. I wonder how many of you have even thought about what and whom you’re giving gifts to this holiday?  Gift giving can be a stressful experience if you let it.  And, even worse, this kind of stress can take the focus and joy out of the season.  As you finish your Christmas shopping, I’d like you to think about the ultimate Christmas gift that the world received when Mary stepped out on faith and said “yes” to bearing God’s Son, Jesus. Mary became a mother before she became a wife.  This young lady was brave and obedient as she gave the world a gift that keeps on giving. And it’s Mary’s faith that makes this month’s Heart Story a timeless testimony.

In Luke 1:26, we see a young teenage Mary ready to get married.  However, Gabriel the archangel appeared to tell her that God had other plans for her.  Gabriel had good news.  God had chosen Mary to carry the Messiah.  As wonderful as this news was, Mary didn’t leap for joy.  Like any woman, the preparation for marriage can be both exciting and stressful, but in the end it’s worth it.  But everything Mary imagined was being altered.  Initially, Mary was troubled by the news. Yet despite her concern, she agreed to become a virgin mother for God and the world.

Bravely, Mary accepted God’s gift to her.  But just as Mary accepted God’s gift, she gave God a gift too.  She gave herself—what an awesome gift exchange.  And what a joy and honor it was for Mary to be handpicked by God to do such a great thing.  Mary’s life was changed forever, but I don’t doubt it was better than she could ever imagine.

I’m sure Mary’s modest testimony would be that out of all the women God could have chosen, He chose her.  Pushing past fear, criticism and her own plans for her life, Mary became a vessel.  What will your 2008 testimony be?  Is God trying to bring one single thing or multiple things through you?

Like Mary, God needs us to trust Him.  And know, as Gabriel said, “nothing is impossible with God” (Luke 1:37). Doubt and fear may arise, but like with Mary, faith can overcome it all.  You may feel inadequate like Mary.  Or you may have other plans for you life, like Mary.  Yet when you partner with God, He can let what He’s planted in you come to pass.

Posted under Life Stories