Luke 1:46-49 - 46 And Mary said: My soul praises the greatness of the Lord, 47 and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, 48 because he has looked with favor on the humble condition of his servant. Surely, from now on all generations will call me blessed, 49 because the Mighty One has done great things for me, and his name is holy.
Reflection: Living life with Jesus is a great adventure. He leads us into amazing situations - some may be uncomfortable or scary. Mary may have had some uncomfortable reactions when it was known by neighbors she was pregnant because in the midst of her heartwarming praise to God are four tiny words: “surely, from now on.” We can look at Mary’s reaction and model our own response to unpleasantness while we stand in the middle of God’s will. We can focus forward.
Prayer: Lord, You make my life an adventure. Sometimes when life gets hard I forget to focus forward. Remind me to look forward, envision the results, and live with joy. As I look forward to our celebration of Jesus’ birth, my desire is for others to see my joy. You have done great things for me Thank you. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.
Reflection: Living life with Jesus is a great adventure. He leads us into amazing situations - some may be uncomfortable or scary. Mary may have had some uncomfortable reactions when it was known by neighbors she was pregnant because in the midst of her heartwarming praise to God are four tiny words: “surely, from now on.” We can look at Mary’s reaction and model our own response to unpleasantness while we stand in the middle of God’s will. We can focus forward.
- Focusing forward allows us to bypass present circumstances, envision God’s plan and results and know joy.
- Focusing forward allows us to put present circumstances into long term perspective. We have joy knowing God is with us.
- Focusing forward helps us to count the many things God does for us and to live with joy.
- Focusing forward gives us abiding joy knowing He is holy and He is living within each believer.
Prayer: Lord, You make my life an adventure. Sometimes when life gets hard I forget to focus forward. Remind me to look forward, envision the results, and live with joy. As I look forward to our celebration of Jesus’ birth, my desire is for others to see my joy. You have done great things for me Thank you. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.