No matter how you choose to celebrate Christ this season, let the Messiah–not the mayhem–reign in your heart. May you be richly blessed in Him!
Read: Luke 1:46—55
46 And Mary said:
“My soul glorifies the Lord
47 and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,
48 for he has been mindful
of the humble state of his servant.
From now on all generations will call me blessed,
49 for the Mighty One has done great things for me—
holy is his name.
50 His mercy extends to those who fear him,
from generation to generation.
51 He has performed mighty deeds with his arm;
he has scattered those who are proud in their inmost thoughts.
52 He has brought down rulers from their thrones
but has lifted up the humble.
53 He has filled the hungry with good things
but has sent the rich away empty.
54 He has helped his servant Israel,
remembering to be merciful
55 to Abraham and his descendants forever,
just as he promised our ancestors.”
Reflect: Out of the overflow of Mary’s heart, she praised God. She recalled her unworthiness (verse 48) and His might (verse 49). She speaks of God’s mercy (verse 50) and the deeds He has performed to orchestrate that exact moment (verse 51). Declare His praise today, for He is mindful of you and extends His sweet mercy to you. He has fed you, helped you, and will forever be with you.
Respond: Mighty One, You are beyond comprehension and full of beauty and grace. Thank You for Your extension of love to me and Your priceless gift of salvation. While I am a wretched person, You saw it fit to pursue me. Help me “to live a life worthy of the Lord and please [You] in every way” (Colossians 1:10).
Tot Time: With the children, spend some time making a list of all the things you’re thankful for that God has given. Call out God’s characteristics (i.e., loving, kind, patient, etc.) and write them down.