I want more than anything to have a faith like Mary's.
Last week, I went home to celebrate my Mama's birthday with my family. One of her favorite Christmas songs is "A Baby Changes Everything" by Faith Hill, so naturally, I heard it a few times while I was with her. I had probably heard that song a dozen times before I really heard it. And when I heard it, it hit me.
Hearing the nativity story, I've always been so focused on picturing Mary as an ordinary, lowly, meek girl that God used in a huge way--I've never really thought about how extraordinary her faith was. How huge, bold, and unwavering her faith was--such a contrast to the picture I've always had of her.
Picture this. A teenage girl--much, much younger than any of us. Unmarried. Still living under her parents roof. Innocent in every way, simply trying to live her life to glorify God. And the Creator of the Universe chose her to carry His Son, to carry the Savior of the world. Can you imagine? I think I would've passed smooth out right then and there...but Mary simply said yes. Without hesitation, just followed her God in obedience, trusting that His will was greater than her will. She didn't make excuses, she didn't ask for some grand sign. She just said, "Yes, Lord, yes."
"My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for He has looked with favor on the lowliness of His servant. Surely, from now on all generations will call me blessed; for the Mighty One has done great things for me, and holy is His name."
Luke 1:46-49
It gives me chills...every time I read this passage, my eyes fill up with tears. She didn't question His plan, she just went with it. She didn't hide in fear, she didn't let her fear get the best of her--she just trusted. I want more than anything to have more Mary moments in my life.
I pray that I can surrender to His will as humbly and faithfully as she did. I can't imagine the ways that God would use me if I just had faith like Mary's.
6 comments:
Oh, this brought tears to my eyes this early morning. What a great entry and what truth for all of us.
Have I told you what a great writer you are? Always, always enjoy my visits! Hugs to you!
Amen, Rach. I can't imagine what she must have felt like when people stopped and stared at the young "virgin's" growing belly. It breaks my heart to think that my fiancee might have wanted to do away with me, too. But, she kept on. She trusted. Oh, how I want to trust like that! I know that I complicate things so much... I just want to simplify. I just want to live for Him and get rid of the junk... I believe that is the only way we will ever have faith like Mary!
More and more Mary is becoming someone who I look up too. I admire how confident she comes across because lord knows I couldn't be calm. More than anything I want courage like Mary, I want to be able to trust God and just say "yes, Lord, yes."
Great post Rach!
Our pastor preached about Mary's faith this past Sunday in church and it really struck me how incredibly strong and brave she was. It would be hard for me to accept, and I know it would have been so much more difficult for her. But, the fact that you have a desire to have a faith like Mary's is so admirable. I love reading about your faith, Rachel. It is something I rarely blog about, but I admire that you share your faith journey and commitment to the Lord with us.
What a beautiful post, and such a needed reminder. Thanks.
What a wonderful post...and quote!
xoxo,
megs [at] Shine On
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