December 2011 Mary, A Women Who Reflected
A black and white photo shows my brother, my sister and I acting out the Nativity story. As the oldest, I cast the parts. My brother was Joseph, my sister was the angel of the Lord and I was Mary. We designed our own costumes and a doll played the part of baby Jesus. In the photo, my eyes are closed, my hands are folded in prayer and there is a slight smile on my face.
I guess I have always been enamored by Mary the mother of Jesus. Over time, my fascination with her has only increased. As a young teenager, engaged to be married, she was approached by the angel and told she would bear the Son of the Most High (Luke 1). Her response was nothing short of amazing! First a question, “How can this be since I am a virgin?” (v.34) No doubt she knew the prophecies about the coming Messiah who would be born to a virgin. So her question was a simple desire for understanding, and revealed both her faith and submission. After the angel answered her question, she said, “Behold, the bondslave of the Lord; be it done to me according to your word.” This is no ordinary young woman!
It isn’t until a few years later that we get a glimpse of the reason for her spiritual maturity. Two verses in Luke 2 use the same words to describe Mary’s response to two different situations. One verse (19) follows the visit of the shepherds who shared with her what the angels had told them. The other verse (51) follows the family’s visit to the temple when Jesus is missing and is then found questioning the teachers. In both scenarios, Mary was given new information about her son’s identity. (v. 19) says Mary “treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.” (v. 51) says she “treasured all these things in her heart”.
There is a pattern here that reveals how Mary listened and observed, and then reflected. The result was a woman who was so “tuned in” to God that submitting to His will was automatic. During this season, I want to be like Mary, listening to His Word, observing His work around me, and reflecting on who He is. Then I can join Him in His work.
Warmly In Him,
Kathy for the Johns
