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

I have no idea how many times I’ve written on this verse, but it hits me every time I read it. The level of faith, humility, and commitment demonstrated in these words is incredible. I feel sure Luke heard her account of them personally while he was researching and writing his Gospel, in the two years Paul was held in Caesarea. (Acts 24:27) I’m sure he was in awe at the time, as well. The Catholic attitude toward Mary is one of the things that would keep me from ever joining their number officially. Though their formal dogma says that she is not to be worshiped, but only venerated, titles  like “Queen of Heaven,” and “Mother of God,” raise huge red flags for me. At the same time, I think Protestants lose something when they fail to meditate on her level of faith and commitment. By Levitical law, an unwed girl could be stoned to death for getting pregnant! (I’ve always thought that was horribly unfair, since a boy was certainly involved – other than in this case – and the child is certainly innocent.) She had no idea how her fiancé Joseph would react, and indeed, it took an angelic visitation to get him on board, but her first commitment was to her God, and that is how we too should be. The road ahead of her was certainly not easy, so we too should have nothing held back in our commitment. After all, Jesus said explicitly that in this world we would have trouble! (John 16:33) In our celebration of Christmas we would do well to meditate on Mary, and seek to follow her example.

My life has had its ups and downs, but I don’t think I’ve ever been presented with a choice as stark as Mary’s. Most of the right choices I’ve made I’ve been inclined to do anyway! I’ve known people who were afraid to commit totally to God because “He might send me to Africa!” Indeed He might, but if He does, the road will be filled with more blessings than you can imagine, as well as difficulties. I grew up watching my parents’ total commitment, though they never talked about it. We are all capable of bold statements of faith, but as the saying goes, the proof of the pudding is in the eating, and people are watching to see what happens “when push comes to shove.” Frankly, I don’t trust myself to always make the right choices, but I know that God is able to guide me, so I’m not to be anxious about anything. His plans are always the best, and I’m sure Mary was ultimately very grateful she made the choice she did.

Father, thank You for this reminder. It’s the little choices that tend to trip me up! Help me be fully committed to You on every level so that my obedience won’t falter, for the blessing of everyone involved and for Your glory. Thank You. Praise God!