From the start of a pregnancy, they face sickness and many worries about what may be happening to them, and concerns about an unknown future. Then the pain of childbirth, and from then on, a lifetime of concern for the well-being of their child. Their job is never over, and on top of that, many mothers blame themselves for whatever happens in their child's life.
And this is the life that Mary was facing.
We know there were added complications for her - becoming pregnant before being married, and much else. So, following Gabriel's startling declaration about her pregnancy and the prospects for the child, she comes out with words of active participation in what was coming.
'Mary responded, “I am the Lord’s servant. May everything you have said about me come true.” And then the angel left her.' (Luke 1.38)
Mary's desire that Gabriel's words, as part of the eternal plan of Almighty God, would be fulfilled in and through her active partnership, show me again what trusting God looks like.
None of us is called to take on Mary's role, but we are called to discern what is God's desire for us, whatever our situation and opportunity. This is a journey we all share with one another.
When Mary went to visit her elderly relative, Elizabeth, who was also miraculously pregnant, they had three months to discuss and wonder at the ways of God. Elizabeth could discern that Mary was fully on board with God's plan for her life, and comes out with a wonderful description. 'You are blessed because you believed that the Lord would do what he said.” (Luke 1.45)
At various stages in my own life, I have been challenged to follow Mary's example, as described by Elizabeth. Trusting that God will do what he has said is at the root of our life of faithful following, whatever our age, opportunities and setting.
I am praying that Jesus will help me to be like his Mother Mary.
Best wishes,
Richard
No comments:
Post a Comment