Today's reading

“I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered. “May your word to me be fulfilled.” Then the angel left her. –Luke 1:38 NIV

December 20, 2023

Saying Yes

“I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered. “May your word to me be fulfilled.” Then the angel left her. –Luke 1:38 NIV

There is so much we can learn from Mary’s walk of obedience. The Bible tells us that she was a young Jewish woman betrothed to Joseph when the angel Gabriel came to her with God’s message. She accepted God’s plan without hesitation. She said, “Yes” to God. She had no idea nor how costly her obedience would be. But she was a willing servant. With bravery and love, she became part of God’s ultimate plan. She will always be remembered as the mother of God’s only Son. 

Mary fulfilled God’s purpose, but not without a life filled with great pain and sorrow. At that time, she could not have fully understood the purpose and mission that awaited her Son. She would see the day He entered the world as well as the day He would be crucified. God used this peasant girl in a mighty way. She should always be honored and admired for her bravery and devotion to God, but not worshiped, as we never take our eyes off Christ. Let’s learn from Mary’s example of faithful perseverance—and be open to saying “Yes” to God’s calling.

prayer focuses

Lord, help me to trust in You with all of my heart and not to lean on my own understanding (see Proverbs 3:5).

Lord, help me to understand and accept that Your plans for me may be different from my own. Help me to submit to You.

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Author

Rosemary Valentino

Rosemary has been a Christian for forty years and loves the Lord. She is blessed with a loving husband, two children and five grandchildren. She is humbled to be able to write devotions and share God's word. She gives Him all the glory.