From Luke 1, Scripture continues with the Christmas Story.
When Mary visits Elizabeth, the baby (John the Baptist) leaps in Elizabeth’s womb.
Today, let’s take pause and remember why we celebrate Christmas.
It’s not the presents; nor the family meals and gatherings although these things bring happiness for those attending.
No, it’s the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ who is to be lifted high above all other celebrations.
“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.” – Luke 2:14 (KJB)
The Christmas Story – Mary Visits Elizabeth
Now at this time Mary set out and went in a hurry to the hill country, to a city of Judah, and she entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth.
When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit.
And she cried out with a loud voice and said, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb!
And how has it happened to me that the mother of my Lord would come to me?
For behold, when the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the baby leaped in my womb for joy.
And blessed is she who believed that there would be a fulfillment of what had been spoken to her by the Lord.”
Mary’s Song: The Magnificat
And Mary said:
“My soul exalts the Lord,
And my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior.
For He has had regard for the humble state of His bond-servant;
For behold, from now on all generations will call me blessed.
For the Mighty One has done great things for me;
And holy is His name.
And His mercy is to generation after generation
Toward those who fear Him.
He has done mighty deeds with His arm;
He has scattered those who were proud in the thoughts of their hearts.
He has brought down rulers from their thrones,
And has exalted those who were humble.
He has filled the hungry with good things,
And sent the rich away empty-handed.
He has given help to His servant Israel,
In remembrance of His mercy,
Just as He spoke to our fathers,
To Abraham and his descendants forever.”
Mary stayed with her about three months, and then returned to her home.”- Luke 1:39-56 (NASB)
Mary & Elizabeth
Although she herself was pregnant with a son she had longed for, Elizabeth could have envied Mary, whose son would be even greater than her own.
But, Elizabeth did not feel any jealousy toward Mary.
Instead, she was filled with joy and excitement that the mother of her Lord would visit her.
Have you ever felt jealousy or envy toward people whom God has apparently singled out for special blessing?
I believe we all have to some extent.
The good news is, there is a cure for the envy we feel.
We can rejoice and be happy for those people, realizing that God uses His people in ways best suited to His purpose.
And remember, God is using you and I right now for some purpose.
If you are not sure about what you are doing for God; or what He is asking of you, just say an earnest prayer and ask God what you can do.
He will give you an assignment to help further His kingdom.
Okay, the assignment may or may not seem as glamorous or exciting as you expected. But, everyone has a part in the kingdom of God.
There is no small job for God.
A story comes to mind when I think about working on big projects.
Back in the 1960’s, a woman janitor was sweeping the floor of the NASA control room.
And, when asked how she felt working as a janitor of NASA she replied;
“I’m not just working as a janitor and sweeping the floor. I’m helping to send a man to the moon!”
So, let’s take a lesson from this woman and do our job for God with a whole different understanding.
After all, we are not just “sweeping the floor“.
In reality, we are building an empire far greater than any on earth – The Kingdom of God!
So, let’s get to work!
Love in Christ
– Bob
If you have never made the commitment to receive the love and life-changing experience of Jesus Christ, please take a moment to Read John 3:16 for more information.