A Time To Rest

Mary stayed with Elizabeth for about three months and then returned home. Luke 1:39-56 (NIV)

I’m thinking Mary desperately needed this time to be set apart, consider her situation, pray and ask God to show her the next steps and to REST before what was sure to be a taxing assignment.

We are just a few days before Christmas and just days before the arrival of a brand-new year. I don’t know about you, but finding “rest” before the birth of Jesus in our homes and hearts this year may not be an option. What I also know is that I am the only one who has the final say about MY “set apart” time. I have learned that it is fully up to me to make it happen, in whatever way my life and circumstances provide. This much I know: God WILL provide! He is good. He is able. He loves and cares for you and your well-being!

In the verses just before today’s’ verse (Luke 1:46-55) we get a deep, deep look into Mary’s heart. A heart that is filled with declarations about God’s ability and character is a heart that pleases God and provides a place of rest.

We’’ look at these words again in a few days but for now, let’s declare these truths today from the perspective of the REST and PEACE these promises should bring!

God is mindful of the state of his servant (God is thinking about me)
The mighty one has done great things for me (God has and will take care of me)
His mercy extends to those who fear him (God is merciful towards me)
His mercy extends from generation to generation (God is caring for my children, grandchildren, those I love)
He has performed mighty deeds (God is able to take care of my messes)
He has scattered the proud (God fights my battles)
He lifts up the humble (God sees the desires of my heart)
He fills the hungry with good things (God has a big plan for my life)
He is our helper (God will help me do what I need to do)
He keeps his word (God keeps His word!)

Mary had no idea about her future and did not understand God’s plan for the salvation of the world through her unborn child. But, she did understand the character of God, as she beautifully proclaims in Mary’s Song.

During this busy season remember Mary’s Song, watch for His provision and rest in the faithfulness of our Savior.

Prayer: Lord, thank you that you are always mindful of my physical and spiritual needs. Help me find places, moments, and space for rest in this very busy time. Might you open a small slot for a cup of eggnog and a few minutes with my Unstuck Christmas and my journal? Thank you, Lord, for this season, so rich in your comfort and love! Amen.

Please share in the comments any ideas you might have for Rest and Reflection over the coming days!

HUGS!

pat