I love Christmas.
The family time, the excitement, the traditions. But then a picture like the one above flashes before me and I am awestruck.
This image has been floating around the internet for a couple years now, but every time I see it another layer of truth and hope reveals itself.
How God turns shame to hope.
From choosing death comes new life.
How God keeps his promises.
But this year when I see this image, I am drawn to the power we have as women to encourage, empower, and comfort.
Mary’s face could have been judgmental.
Mary could have been angry and bitter.
But Mary’s song in Luke 1:46-55, shows such a sweet spirit and spiritual maturity, that I know I didn’t have as a teen.
And Mary said:
“My soul glorifies the Lord 47 and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, 48 for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant. From now on all generations will call me blessed, 49 for the Mighty One has done great things for me— holy is his name. 50 His mercy extends to those who fear him, from generation to generation. 51 He has performed mighty deeds with his arm; he has scattered those who are proud in their inmost thoughts. 52 He has brought down rulers from their thrones but has lifted up the humble. 53 He has filled the hungry with good things but has sent the rich away empty. 54 He has helped his servant Israel, remembering to be merciful 55 to Abraham and his descendants forever, just as he promised our ancestors.”
Take time this holiday season to ponder and treasure the hope and promise of Jesus’ birth. Christmas isn’t just God coming to live among us, which is amazing enough. But it was a fulfillment of prophecy. It was a promise given at the beginning of the world, a plan in place before the creation of the world. It was for everyone, but more than that it was personal, with you in mind.
Merry Christmas