Worth it

Today's blog post is from Lisa Brenninkmeyer's book, Be Still 365-Day Devotional to Quiet Your Heart. 

"When Mary was asked to collaborate with God, she was given no guarantees-just the opportunity to love. The first thing the angel said to her was, "Do not be afraid" (Luke 1:30). These are Mary's words to us, as well. She led by example, showing total confidence in God when she said, "Let it be done to me according to your word" (Luke 1:38). She showed total confidence in Jesus when she turned to the servants at the wedding at Cana and said, "Do whatever He tells you" John 2:5). She gives us the same message: "Do whatever He tells you." But we hesitate, wondering how much pain or sorrow such obedience might cause us. Mary didn't know what suffering her yes—her fiat—might bring. And we don't know, either. But we do know that we don't walk that path alone. And we know that obedience, though costly, pays eternal dividends that make any sacrifice worth it."

As Christmas draws near let's try to remember the heart of Christmas. 

I prayed with the Advent Challenge today on Hallow. I imagined Mary inviting me to hold her baby Jesus in my arms. He snuggled close to my heart. He blinked his beautiful eyes and looked up at me. 

With a single gaze and maybe even a tiny yawn, this new born baby finds that you and I are worth it.  

Mary's "yes" - her "fiat" was worth it. 

We are not alone. 

Emmanuel. 

"Who needs Mary?

'Those who don't feel known.

Those who are harsh.

Those who don't feel loved.

Those who are afraid that if they do too much, they'll be taken advantage of.

Those who are afraid of what obedience to God might cost.

Those who take care of everybody else and need someone to take care of them.

We all need a mother."

Painting by Erin McAtee