Read Psalm 65. TEXT: "Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word" (Luke 1:38).
When Mary awoke this morning, she undoubtedly expected things to go as they always had. Her betrothal to Joseph would continue; her wedding day would be a day closer. Things would be as they were yesterday, and tomorrow will bring more of the same.
She didn't awake thinking an angel would suddenly appear and that God's plans would shake up her life drastically. Yet for all that, in simple faith, she willingly casts aside her plans, eager to serve God's good pleasure.
Sometimes life seems like it's going according to schedule, cruising along the way we expect. We may have a precise timeline with all our steps carefully laid out, but suddenly things change. Health problems arise, jobs are lost, and friends disappear. It can be frustrating, frightening or exhilarating. For Mary, this news is life-changing. But the Holy Spirit has given her faith and confidence to accept God's changes. He gives us that same trust to believe that whatever God is doing, He is still working to make all these things turn for our benefit.
That is precisely what God promises you and me. In Romans 8:28a He assures us, "We know that for those who love God all things work together for good ...."
This Christmas is a reminder that God doesn't stand back and let things go by themselves. We aren't victims of chance and circumstance; rather, God is carefully arranging everything for good. This is just as He arranged everything to send His Son into this world by the Virgin Mary.
THE PRAYER: Heavenly Father, forgive me for questioning and doubting the wisdom of Your will. Still my heart when change comes, and give me humble, quiet faith so that I may serve You in awe and watch Your mighty deliverance. Through Jesus Christ, Your Son, I pray. Amen.
Today's Bible Readings: Psalms 79-80 Revelation 7
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