6 Minute Read + Scripture readings
Today’s Bible Reading:
Today’s Bible Verse(s):
“‘I am the Lord’s servant,’ said Mary. ‘May it be done to me according to your word.’ Then the angel left her.”
Luke 1:38 (CSB)
Reflections on Today’s Bible Verse(s):
The story of Luke 1 is probably very familiar to you. You and I have heard of the angel’s announcement to Mary of Jesus’ arrival many times.
Yet, the verse I have chosen for today demonstrates a powerful heart attitude that we should reflect upon.
Luke 1:38 (CSB): “‘I am the Lord’s servant,’ said Mary. ‘May it be done to me according to your word.’ Then the angel left her.”
Some people erroneously think that if we are fully submitted to and obedient to God, then things will go well with us. That is not true. Just consider the following as we reflect upon Mary’s godly character and submission to God’s will:
- Mary would soon be perplexed at how she could explain to her family why she was pregnant when she insisted that she had not been sexually active.
- Mary’s fiancé would doubt her claims and prepare divorce proceedings.
- Mary would be forced to travel a miserable 70 miles to Bethlehem when she was nearing the time of her delivery.
- For some reason, they remained in Bethlehem for up to 2 years but would then be forced to flee for their lives to Egypt because of Herod’s evil plan to kill all of the boys who were 2 years of age and under.
- There are so many things that we could continue to highlight that would break Mary’s heart but none so powerful as when she was standing at the foot of the cross, watching her son’s mutilated body approach a torturous, unjust death (see John 19:25).
Why am I highlighting this point?
Because I want you to know, friend, that you cannot determine God’s love for you or your submission to Him by whether or not your life is easy. Sometimes, it seems that those who are the most devoted to King Jesus tend to have more struggles than other folks.
How is this truth encouraging? Because, when we are submitted to the Lord and face difficulties …
- It keeps our eyes on the prize and away from this old world.
- It gives us an opportunity to see if we truly love Jesus and will remain with Him even when times get tough.
- It allows us to demonstrate for others that Jesus isn’t simply an addition to our life. He is everything. And they will take notice.
- One day it will all be over. We will be in our eternal home looking back on our life. And we will be so glad that we followed Jesus as He looks us in the eyes, a smile forms on His face, He raises His hands to applaud, and He says to us:
Matthew 25:23 (CSB): “… ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You were faithful over a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Share your master’s joy.’”
* * * * * * * * * *
Lord Jesus, while this life may not be easy, help me to keep my eyes on You. Help me to realize that if I am to know and enjoy You more, then I will probably need to go through some of the things You went through. That means that bad things will happen to me at least periodically. But You are worth it, Jesus. Because you loved me and died to pay my sin debt so that I could be made right before a holy of, I want to live for You. You deserve no less. Amen.
Matt’s Musings 