An amazing example of submission and praise from a truly AMAZING woman! Well, we're entering our final week on the "Amazing Women of the Bible" and today (Monday) we're looking at Mary, the mother of Jesus. I love reading this account (Luke 1:26-56) because I absolutely love Mary's responses, both to the angel and then a short while later when she is with Elizabeth.
Have you ever received unexpected news that wasn't the best? (You get a call in the middle of the night and find out that a loved one has been in a terrible car accident or you take your car in for some routine work and instead of a $50 bill you find out that you need a complete overhaul that will cost you big bucks).Think about how that made you feel and how you reacted.
Now think about Mary. Those situations I described pale in comparison to her news. Yes, it was incredible that she had been chosen by God to be Jesus' mother, but remember, she wasn't married and in this time and culture that could mean death. So what is Mary's response? Submission and then incredible praise in verses 46-56, sometimes referred to as Mary's "Magnificat."
So what will it take for us to be able to respond like Mary--to submit and then praise fully and without reservation when we find ourselves in a difficult situation that may not be a product of choosing? Was there anything in these passages that you found helpful or encouraging? Tami W.
what stood out to me was her humble and submissive attitude towards God..i wasn't what she expected but she responded with grace and not worrying about what people will say or how they will react, she was just pleased that God had chosen her..
If only we accept that attitude and be as Mary was in Verse 38 i am the Lord's servant......and to always remember that Verse 48 For he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant. God See us in every situation.
Life consists of good and bad times. I have learned to trust in God during the bad times because He knows what is best for me and what situation brings me closer to salvation. During the storms of life I become closer to God. He has a purpose for the seasons in our lives and we must give thanks for what we have and where we are in life, and for our journey to this point. If you are enduring a difficult time in your life try trusting God’s mercies instead of asking the “why me” question.
Enjoy your day!
I have a comment and a question too. If we knew more about Mary's life before, do you think we would learn more about what led up to this experience? I am guessing that God put Mary through some other experiences eariler in ther life that prepared her for being the mother of Jesus.
I would also guess that the way she was raised helped prepare her for the experience of being the mother of Jesus. Just some thoughts.
It's a good reminder that God is truly Sovereign over the seemingly "bad or difficult circumstances." I don't look at the circumstances as much anymore than say, ok, God, what do you want me to learn or do. Besides Mary, some of my heroes are Joseph and Daniel. At least in scripture you don't see them complaining about the circumstances. God uses the circumstances to mold their characters to do His work. They are quite amazing characters! And look how God uses them! Amazing! More than they hoped for or imagine! God is Amazing that he uses puny us to do His work!