Advent Devotional

It is a privilege to serve God’s purposes.  Mary was a simple, small town girl who loved God and was willing to be used by Him.  Because of her faith and acceptance of God’s calling in her life, we have all been blessed.  Through her came our Lord and Savior, the Messiah of Israel and the King of Kings, Jesus Christ.  What if she had refused?  Unthinkable.  What lessons should we draw from Mary’s attitude?  What encouragement should we gain from God’s choice of such an ordinary person with extra-ordinary willingness? 
 
Christmas season is a time to reflect on God becoming one of us.  Mary was an important key to Christ’s incarnation.  Yet, on another level, her willingness was her own salvation, for the child would redeem his mother as well.  Truly God has been mindful of us all!

As you near Christmas, hold on to Mary’s attitude of praise as her soul exalted the Lord and her spirit rejoiced in God her Savior.

For Reflection & Discussion: What encouragement can you take away from Mary’s example today?

Prayer: Father, You sent Your glorious eternal Son to redeem us.  To do that You entered Mary’s womb and were formed into a body, enduring birth, childhood, and the rigors of life.  You were misunderstood, disregarded, and rejected.  You bore our sins and You died.  But then You rose again in body.  Thank You for doing that for us.  Thank You for doing that for me.  Amen.