A blessed life is not the same as an easy life
December 8
Read: Luke 1:39-45
Mary’s calling was a blessing, but it was also costly. She nearly lost her fiancé. She was disowned by everyone around her, and she would eventually see her son murdered.
Being blessed isn’t always easy, but if we keep our eyes on the Lord, we will experience the joy and fulfillment only His presence can provide.
“And blessed is she who believed that there would be a fulfillment of what was spoken to her from the Lord.” - Luke 1:45
Through Elizabeth, God reassured Mary that her radical faith was in the right place. When Mary learned Elizabeth was pregnant, she rushed to see it with her own eyes. As soon as Mary arrived, Elizabeth’s baby leaped in her womb, and she told Mary, “God has blessed you above all women, and your child is blessed” (Luke 1:41-42).
Mary faced big hurdles, but she experienced an even bigger blessing. And though that blessing was disguised to the world for a time, He was and will be revealed in glory (Matthew 24:30-31).
If your circumstances are less than merry this Christmas, remember Mary’s story. Remember that God is always at work, and His plan for you is good.
No matter how bleak your circumstances, God has not deserted you. He is bigger than our understanding, and He loves us more than we can fathom (Isaiah 55:9). That truth alone gives us a reason to celebrate.
Reflect:
What hurdles are you facing right now?
Are you focusing on your circumstances or the Lord, who wants to lead you through them?
What is one practical way you can remind yourself of God’s love even when you don’t feel it?