Happy Birthday Jesus

I can't help but think about Mary when we celebrate the birth of our savior. Can you imagine being a 14 year old girl called by the Lord for such an honor, a painful, scary honor? This innocent girl risked being executed as was custom at the time had Joseph allowed for being pregnant in the first place. She sacrificed her honor and most never believed her. She was ridiculed and in months that followed was lead to Bethlehem on the back of a donkey. My minivan failed to be comfortable at nine months pregnant! Delivering our savior in a barn without anyone there to support her except Joseph, who if is anything like most of our husbands, felt helpless. She held our savior in her arms. She fed her son and loved him but knew his birth was so much more significant than even she could imagine. From the very beginning, most doubted His royalty. Those who didn't, wanted him eliminated. At the time of Jesus' birth, the chaos we have around his birthday today also existed. Few failed to slow down and notice. Most failed to celebrate.

Mary later watched her son die on a cross for the sins of the world. She knew he was on earth to save us but I can't imagine she knew how. Can you hear the ridicule? Can you see the glee on the faces of those torturing her son? Her precious son who was actively dying for the salvation of those causing his death. Being a mother who wants to protect her child and take his place during times of pain, I cannot process how she got through those days.

God calls. Some respond. Those who do will be judged. Sometimes it appears easier to remain free from the pain that comes in this world when we follow God but then we miss out on the incredible blessings too. Mary has a lot to teach the world about obedience at a cost. Her journey was painful but who else can say they held, nurtured and loved the son of God on earth? Amazing calling and beautiful blessing.