Living 4 Him

“I am the Lord’s servant. May your word to me be fulfilled.”  Luke 1:38

Have you ever contemplated why God chose Mary and Joseph to be Jesus’ earthly parents?  What qualities, gifts and desires did they possess to influence Jesus’ growing up years? 

As the Advent Season begins, let’s explore the lives of Mary (today) and Joseph (next week) to better understand the nature of their souls and gain insight for our own lives.  

Mary is mentioned briefly in the Gospels of Matthew and Mark, but most of what we know of her comes from the book of Luke.  Here, we learn that Mary lived in Nazareth, a small, somewhat isolated village in Galilee where farming and trading were common.  A simple life of hard work, Mary grew up in the Jewish faith, praying daily, reading the Torah and worshiping God, her Creator.

Mary’s story unfolds in Luke 1:26-56.  She is visited by the angel Gabriel with news of her pending pregnancy.  Mary has questions, but responds with these words of faith. “I am the Lord’s servant. May your word to me be fulfilled.”  Luke 1:38

Mary visits her cousin Elizabeth, who is pregnant with John, destined to prepare the way for the Messiah.  As Mary further discovers the work of God’s hand in her life, she expresses praise and confidence through a song rejoicing in her Lord and Savior. These words tell us the story of her character.

Mary knew God. The last 6 verses of this song, also known as the Magnificat, are all about God, showcasing the ways he works in the world. The scriptures Mary reads in the Torah are not just words.  They are understandings to guide her to who God is, records of what God has done and promises of what he will do. Mary’s thorough knowledge of God makes him a familiar friend.

Mary served God.  Throughout this passage in Luke, Mary calls herself “the Lord’s servant” several times.  The demanding duties of her life were performed in a mindset of servanthood; bringing God honor through every task. Birthing the Messiah becomes another way to bring joy to God and Mary is glad to carry out God’s wishes.  

Mary trusted God.  Mary’s relationship with God leads her to trust God.  No matter what difficulties may be ahead, Mary knows that if God is in charge she has no need to fear.  God will see them through and his perfect plans will prevail. 

Mary chose to know God, to serve God and to trust God because she loved God.  Loving God, the first and greatest commandment, is the spiritual spark that makes knowing him, serving him and trusting him possible. 

During her three months with Elizabeth, Mary soaked in the full knowledge of God and his plans for her, she could return home, empowered for her life ahead.  We can live empowered as well. By loving God we learn to know God, to serve God and to trust God.  

Scripture preserves stories and instruction for us as evidenced by this quote from Charles Swindoll:

“I firmly believe God’s Word has been preserved, not merely as a collection of historical documents and geographical studies,  but as a trustworthy resource–a place we turn to for assistance in living our lives in ways that honor Christ.

In the pages of Scripture, God has given us models–people, believe it or not, who are just like you and me, who, despite the odds, lived lives pleasing to Him. By faith.  In obedience. With courage.

As the Nativity Story unfolds through this Advent Season, be aware of the timeless story in new light, through the eyes of each character and observe how God empowers you for the tasks ahead.

Reaching in (allowing God’s word to work in your soul): Read Luke 1:26-56 and experience Mary’s story in a brand new way. 

Reaching out (taking God’s word into the world): Use the Advent Prayer below to empower you each day.

Blessed God of the earth and the heavens,

Thank you for Mary’s willingness to be your servant.  I believe you were present to help her every step of the way. Guide me to be your servant.  Help me to know you on a deeper level and to trust you with every situation I face.  The power of your love is my greatest gift and I accept it with joy! In the name of Jesus, Amen.