December 2017
not involve in 'ministry'. Who knows, they
could be raising a John!
I will and I will not
The scene then shifts to the young
Mary, a simple, village girl who is suddenly
thrown into the centre of action. She had to
say 'Yes' to something that could potentially
break her engagement and bring disgrace
to her family. However, her faithful words,
"I am the Lord's handmaid; let it be to me
according to His word" caused her to
become the most blessed of women. Behind
these simple words of submission, you can
almost picture the nerves of steel. She was,
in effect saying, 'May God's word be fulfilled
in my life. My future married life, my social
standing, nothing matters more to me.'
How many young girls have been
unable to accomplish their God given
purpose in life because their families
pressurised them to get married at a
"marriageable" age into a "respectable"
family! How many committed, young men
have been forced by societal pressures to
take up a 'good' profession, when God
called them for full time service! For some of
us, our God given role in life could be to
release our young children for ministry. As
parents, it is natural to be concerned about
their future. However, being sensitive to
God's call in their lives is the greatest
privilege of parents.
Situations and Responses
Joseph, the young man betrothed to
Mary has a very different, although equally
difficult role. We see his obedience in his
actions. When God spoke to him through
the dream, he immediately took Mary home
as his wife. Mary's obedience led to her
retreating to Elizabeth's home for a few
months, possibly away from the glares of
the community. Joseph's obedience
required him to take immediate action,
publicly.
The path that each individual
traverses in his or her walk of faith is
different. Even for the same person, the
responses that are required may be
different in different situations. In the body
of believers, some are called to bold, visible
action. Some may be called to a quiet
ministry of prayer and intercession. Both
are precious and indispensible.
Open Hearts and Open Homes
As the action shifts to Bethlehem, we
read that "she gave birth to her firstborn, a
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