A Week of Christmas WonderSample

Day 2

“For with God nothing will be impossible.” Then Mary said, “Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word.”
Luke 1:37-38

Christmas is about God doing the impossible. These are words we cling to when our life situations seem beyond repair, rescue, or restoration. All our hope is lost, and there can be no good outcome.

 But with God, nothing is impossible! This truth is the joy of a life of faith in Him who holds the universe, the galaxies, and you and me intimately and handily in His Almighty hands. He makes all the difference.

Honestly, the Christian need never despair. We may have seasons of lament, wells of tears, and deep sorrow, but despair or hopelessness? Really, never. 

Certainly, there are valid and varied factors surrounding depression or melancholy and we should seek immediate pastoral or professional help. Yet, when we are tempted to go to a dark place, we must recognize that something might be amiss in the spiritual realm. Have we left our vital and intimate walk with Jesus and taken a detour? Have we opened a door for our adversary, the devil? Honest and true. Maybe this is difficult to hear, but those who abide, reside, dwell in, and soak in the Holy Spirit’s presence and His Word cultivate the fertile soil for powerful faith to be planted and grow. Just like Mary.

Mary, like us at times, doesn’t fully comprehend what is happening to her. What in the world is God thinking? She knows all the implications of her single-parent pregnancy messing with her future. Yet, she trusts the God of her forefathers, knowing that big plans call for big faith. Mary might not understand, but she knows there is a much larger picture, and the One who loves her wildly holds all the details and puzzle pieces.

What are you facing today that has you questioning or is taking your breath away in fear? Don’t do another thing until you draw close to Him. Quiet your heart. Wait for His presence. Open His Word. Listen for His voice.  Then respond knowing that with God, nothing is impossible.

Take a moment to consider: What is the Holy Spirit encouraging me or challenging me with from today's lesson? How can I prayerfully act upon what He is saying?