Pastor Dan - December
Advent is a season of discovery. In our preparations for celebrating the birth of the Savior of the world, we discover joy in finding just the right Christmas tree or just the right gift. We discover a smile on our face when we discover new ornaments or a new store to shop. We may even discover redeeming when we find a spirit alive in us, one we considered long lost. We may discover ways in which God’s faithfulness has had the power to shape our way of thinking and how our hands are used to build up rather than tear down. At times, we even discover a stillness within ourselves which in the midst of the hustle and bustle we experience a sense a peace washes over us. In the season of Advent, I pray we may even discover a little more about who we are and who this God is Who has claimed as His own. When we take advantage of our quiet time in this season of discovery (which is rare), we find that a great deal of discovery swirls around our Advent days which seems to draw us closer to the manger.
We can hardly imagine the discovery swirling within Mary’s mind. Her youth has been invaded with a seismic shift from betrothed girl to mother of our Lord. Can you imagine the pressures and anxieties and questions and doubts not just around the considerations of a prearranged marriage, but also to be with child: God incarnate? Her thoughts were not just consumed in regard to what type of man Joseph may be, but what of this child she carries. What kind of man is Joseph? Is he kind, thoughtful or does he just expect blind obedience no matter what he says or does. Will he care about the child? Does He care about me? What is my life worth in this arrangement as new wife and at the same time, mother of God as Son. Who am I in all this advent activity?
The words from Gabriel must have sent waves of peace and trust throughout Mary’s very being, “Do not be afraid Mary, for you have found favor with God.” This Mary, lost in the mass of humanity, with no voice to shape her life, to be hidden among God’s people is found by God and not only found by God, but found to be in God’s favor. Note the personal touch of Mary’s name in the sentence. Yes, God knows you Mary. You are not lost, but found by a God who searches for you, Mary.
In this Advent and Christmas season, may you hear these words as well. For these words, “Do not be afraid child , for you have found favor with God” are given to you. God knows you too as His grace has come to dwell in your soul and transforms you as a child of His eternal family. May His Peace be with you and may you have a very Blessed and Merry Christmas.
In Christ’s love and service,
Pastor Dan