God Speaking

“But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.”

(Luke 2:19)

At this time of year, I find myself peering into all the nativity scenes we still see in public places, in the churches I visit, my friend’s homes and often when I pass my own crèche on the sideboard, each time I do, my eyes become fixed on that young mother and the tiny baby on her lap and the incongruous setting for such a stupendous happening. How could that be a welcoming place for a king to be born!

Mary knew she was carrying a special baby and must have gone over the angel Gabrielle’s startling words over and over again in her mind, wondering what they meant, and at the same time accepting her role in bringing about the fulfillment of the long awaited Messiah.

“Do not be afraid, Mary, you have found favour with God. You will be with child and give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name, Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High.” (Luke 1:30 – 32)

She must have had times of doubt during her pregnancy and imagine when the time came near for the birth of her baby, she finds herself on a perilous journey, riding on a donkey and then has to deal with the terrible fact that her first born will open his eyes in a probably, dirty stable. Her trust in the God she served is evident and we have to believe that Joseph was a faithful servant also, upholding and supporting her.

But then the miracle of that first Christmas morn. Doubts vanish. A Heavenly host heralds the birth of the Saviour. Shepherds bow down and worship. Wonder mixed with love floods Mary’s being. Every detail of that precious morning is now stored up in Mary’s mind as a beautiful treasure she can remember forever.

No need to ask the question, What child is this? Mary and Joseph know!

Future generations have had to ask themselves that question. In fact, we have to all at some time in our lives answer that question for ourselves. If it is just a beautiful story, or do we acknowledge that the Messiah so long ago promised, became one of us.

“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders, And he will be called Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” (Isaiah 9:6)

Perhaps as we hear the beautiful carol being played during this Christmas season, “What child is this?” we can sing the beautiful reply in our hearts.

This is Christ the King