And all those who heard it marveled at those things which were told them by the shepherds. But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart. (Luke 2:18-19)
My son was in a Christmas play at our church this past Sunday. He was the cutest shepherd you ever laid your eyes on. As the kids said their lines, one stood out to me and touched my heart. “And all those who heard it marveled at those things which were told them by the shepherds. But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart (Luke 2:18-19). I wonder what Mary was thinking. This is my guess of what her thoughts may have been:
“Is this a dream? I know the Lord told me I would give birth to a boy that would save the world, but how? He’s just a little baby boy to me, so precious and beautiful. Look at all these people coming to see Him. I don’t know quite what to say to them. God has given me such a wondrous gift.
As I read the story about the birth of Jesus, I reflect upon mine and my sons own story. His entrance into the world wasn’t exactly planned. I had never watched over any child more than two days via babysitting. I enjoyed my freedom, going out and doing whatever I wanted. When I found out I was pregnant a part of me was in pure disbelief. I thought how could this have happened? Now, with this part, I was definitely not similar to Mary. I certainly knew how it happened, but I never thought it would happen to me (yea I know, got another blog about that coming soon). When he entered this world and I saw him for the first time, all of the mistakes I made in my past seemed to all fade away in a mere moment.
Mary knew what the angel had told her, but she also probably just wanted to take care of her baby and be the best mother she could possibly be. She would be the mother who would raise the Savior of the world. What a job! She was in charge of his feedings, education, discipline and who knows what else as a child. Just the thought of this makes me a little nervous myself. When Jesus was just twelve years old she got to see firsthand the real magnitude of the gift God had given to her. You see, Mary knew that what happened to her was a miracle but perhaps in this moment nothing else mattered besides her responsibility as a mother. She worried and cared about Jesus’ well-being just as any mother would of her child. After anxiously searching for Jesus, fearing He was lost, she and Joseph found Jesus in the Temple. He replied “Why were you searching for me? Didn’t you know I had to be in my Father’s house? (Luke 2:49). Seriously, He was only twelve years old. How could He be so wise?!?!?! The chapter goes on to tell us “And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men” (Luke 2:52).
Being a mother is tough. It’s hard work. But it also encompasses a joy like no other. To know that I too will raise a son with God’s help that will grow up to be a Soldier, a Doctor, a Police officer, a Veterinarian, oh and Captain America (all at the same time he says), BUT most importantly a man who will know the Lord, and a leader who will bring others into God’s Kingdom is overwhelming to think about sometimes (and a mouthful. lol). Only the Lord knows what he will exactly be, but I am honored to be chosen as his mother as I help guide him along this journey of his.
So as I reflect on the birth of Jesus Christ and the true meaning of Christmas today, I, just as Mary will ponder these things in my heart, giving all thanks, glory and honor to God for granting me such a great and blessed privilege; a son of my own and the recipient of such a precious gift given to this world, Jesus Christ:)
Have a Merry Christmas!
Love,
Missy Anne
