Great Expectations

Great Expectations

by Rebecca Wooddell

December 11, 2012

Scripture Reading: Luke 1:30-33

Mary was described in scripture as highly favored in the eyes of God and because of that, she was given an amazing charge.  She was to be the mother of God’s own son!  The responsibility and implications are staggering. What if God had asked you?  Mary was obedient and willing, truly a beautiful spirit. Mary was charged to raise Jesus in a manner pleasing to God and worthy of His calling. 

As Mary was charged in the rearing of Jesus, so are we charged in the training up of our own children and future generations.  God blesses us with little ones, just as He blessed Mary, and He has great expectations.  Like Mary, we should be obedient and willing to follow God’s lead in the direction of our children’s lives.  Every child that crosses the path of our lives does so with a purpose, whether it be our own children, grandchildren, students, neighbors or church youth.  We are responsible to do everything in our ability to point them in the direction of their Heavenly Father. 

Trusting in God and in His plan, we must consider the future of those children in our care. Just as Mary must have been in awe at the future of Jesus, God also has great plans in store for those He loves and calls. Jeremiah 29:11 says, “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

We must look to God for guidance just as the wise men looked to the star that night so long ago.  The bright star was a brilliant symbol of God’s hope, promise, and love.  As Mary held the Light of the World in her arms, with her heart bursting with love and joy, she must have gazed at that star and felt the great expectation of His life. 

The star may no longer be visible in the sky to lead others to Christ, but we are visible.  We are called to be beacons of light in a dark world. Matthew 5:14-16 says, “You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they many see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.”

Let us shine for Jesus this season, being obedient to His call, and vigilant to His direction.  Let us also trust God in the beautiful plan He has for each of our lives, and let us hope in the future of every child that God allows to touch our lives.