Lessons Learned from the Life of Mary

At Christmas time our minds and hearts turn toward thoughts of a baby in a manger, wise men on camels, and shepherds in fields, watching their flocks.  We think about the significance of the birth of Christ and we celebrate His birth with Christmas carols, decorations and gifts.  But as women, we also have a special connection with another Christmas figure…Mary, the mother of Jesus.  There are lessons we can learn and relate to from her story, simply because we are women.
Susan Jameson shared a beautiful message of Mary’s devotion to God, and how we can be an influence in the lives of others by following her example.
 
Have you ever said to God, “May it be done to me as you have said”?  What about when you’re facing the most difficult trial in your life?  Have you ever said, “God do what you want with my job, my family, my health, my finances?  Mary’s famous response to God when He told her she would be the mother of His Son, gives us occasion to think about that kind of commitment.  What would it look like in our own lives?  Susan asked us to imagine what God could do with us if we were completely surrendered and available to Him, just as Mary was.

Here are some practical ways Susan gave us to prepare our hearts for complete surrender to God’s calling:

Mary was a Spirit-filled woman; ask God to fill you with more of His Spirit.
Mary responded to God’s plan with worship; choose to worship Him when challenges come, instead of whining.
Mary was thankful; practice thanking God for every part of your past--the good and the bad--for what it has taught you.