WEEK 5: DECEMBER 3 - 9

Thursday, December 3

Read Luke 1:26-33

We can only try to imagine the thoughts that are running through Mary’s mind right now! If you were to guess, what would they be? The Lord just told her about the Messiah and her involvement in His coming. Have you ever felt the Lord telling you something that seemed completely crazy? If so, what was it?

It says that Mary was “greatly troubled” at being told she was “favored one”. I know that I sometimes have difficulty when I hear how much the Lord loves me. It’s hard to believe. But, we are deeply loved by God! Do you find it difficult just like Mary? Spend some time expressing this to the Lord. He longs for you to know His love for you.

This is the first time that God had revealed the name of Jesus to the world. What comes to mind when you hear the name Jesus? How has the name impacted your life?

Friday, December 4

Read Luke 1:34-38

I love Mary’s reaction in verse 34. “How can this be?” It makes the story of the birth so real. There will be many moments in our walks with the Lord where we come to Him with this question. However, just like He did with Mary, He will answer you. Write down your reaction to this truth.

“…the power of the Most High will overshadow you…For nothing in impossible with God.” In verse 35 and 37, God reassures her that God will take care of all of her doubts and her questions. In other words, God is saying, “I’ve got it. No worries!” Is there anything in your life where you need to hear those words? If so, write it out to God.

Immediately, Mary’s fears go away and she declares, “Behold, I am a servant of the Lord; let it be according to your word.” LET IT BE. Mary is able to say these words because the word of God has spoken to her fears. She knows that God is able when she is not. What are the places in your life where you need to step away from your doubt and let it be?

Monday, December 7

Read Luke 1:39-45

This is one of my favorite parts of Mary finding out about Jesus. In the midst of Mary hearing what is going to happen, God tells her about her friend Elizabeth who is pregnant also. (I must add that Elizabeth was of old age and past the normal age of childbearing.) As soon as Mary can, she gets up and goes to see Elizabeth. God has given Mary someone to talk to. He has given Mary someone in her life that can relate to the doubts and fears of Mary’s news. But, more than that, God has given Mary someone who willingly rejoices with her!

Who in your life is your Elizabeth? What friend or mentor or leader do you have that you can run to and rejoice or cry together? Spend some time praising God for bringing those people into your life. If you feel you are lacking a Godly friendship, spend some time in prayer asking the Lord for a friend like Elizabeth.

Tuesday, December 8

Read Luke 1:46-56

What is it that Mary is going through again? What do her circumstances look like? Now name some of your own circumstances.

Mary spends some time in these verses praising God for who He is, even though her circumstances seem overwhelming to the outsider looking in. She was able to look past the difficult things she would encounter, and claim that God is in control. Good circumstances or not good circumstances we are called to live a life of praise and gratitude to God.

Now read Philipians 4:4-7

If you were to write a song of rejoicing and praise today, what words would you use? What things would you say about God?

Wednesday, December 9

Read Luke 1:67-80

We sometimes get caught up in the whole “Christmas is a time for presents” world, and forget the importance of Jesus coming to this earth. These verses remind us that Jesus came to do what we in our sin could never do. Spend some time praising him for His birth and His reasons for coming!

Verses 76-79 tell us that John was born to proclaim to the world about the Messiah and His coming and “give knowledge of salvation to his people in the forgiveness of their sins”. In a way, we are all like John. We are called to tell people about Jesus and His salvation from our sins. Is this difficult for you? Is it hard to tell your friends about Jesus? If this is your desire, pray and ask Jesus for strength to tell others about the reason for the birth of Jesus. He will give you the strength!