Treasure These Things

 

If you haven’t listened to the song, “Mary Did You Know?” I highly encourage you to do so. Many have sung it over the years. I love all versions and the song never fails to leave me with goosebumps and eyes filled with tears.

    Mary had an unexpected visit with an angel. Gabriel gave her the news straight from the mouth of God. Mary was highly favored in God’s sight. This young virgin would have the privilege of carrying the Son of God and raising Him. It was impossible for her to comprehend this message, nor understand all that was to come

     . Can you imagine her thoughts as this precious child grew within her womb, as she raised her face to the sky above the manger brightly lit by the star, witnessing the worship of the shepherds and the wise men, along with the full glory of the angelic host?

But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. Luke 2:19

     It is hard to fathom the thoughts and ponderings of Joseph and Mary as they raised their young Son. There is little written about the childhood years of Jesus, but as they traveled among their community from Jerusalem to Nazareth, Jesus stayed behind. He was twelve years old.

     When His parents realized He was not among them, they were worried and went back to find Him. Jesus told them they should not have been surprised to find Him in His Father’s house. The others in the temple had been astonished at His maturity and understanding.

The child’s mother and father marveled at what was said about Him. Luke 2:33

     Let’s take time over this season of anticipation and hope, to treasure all of these things in our hearts and ponder them, to marvel in all of God’s ways. How can we possibly comprehend all of the marvelous works of our God? After all, His own mother and father, His sisters and brothers, and His disciples could not anticipate all that was to come.

     Jesus continues to provide moments to be treasured, insight to be pondered, and acts in which we can marvel. Treasure the moments He gives you today.

Lord,

We can’t thank You enough for the word of God that brings all of our human frailties into focus. As we ponder Your birth, and treasure the truths of who You are, as we marvel at our salvation and all that is to come, let us praise You from the mountaintops!  Jesus Christ is born!  Hallelujah!

Amen