The richness and treasures found in the Christmas Story go beyond what our minds can grasp. The miracles, the prayers, the emotions and submitting one's life to God brings us into the story itself.
Each year during the holiday season, we hear the familiar words of the Christmas story detailing the birth of Christ. Beginning with the Angel Gabriel's appearance to Mary, the Christmas story unfolds with the miraculous birth of Jesus on the Earth. "Then the angel said to her, "Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. Behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall name him Jesus" (Luke 1:30-31).
Although Mary is afraid, as she is unmarried and pregnant, she cries out to the Lord in prayer during her time of trouble. And Mary said: "My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord; my spirit rejoices in God my savior. For he has looked upon his handmaid's lowliness; behold, from now on will all ages call me blessed. The Mighty One has done great things for me, and holy is his name" (Luke 1:46-49). It is difficult for us in the present to comprehend the gravity of Mary's predicament, but quite simply, she could have paid the price of her situation through death. Even in her fear, Mary turned to God in prayer for protection and strength.
Many miracles are found in the Christmas story, even beyond Jesus' birth. During the holiday season, we concentrate on the impact of Jesus coming into this world and rightfully so. Yet beyond his birth in the powerful words of the Gospel writers, we can find even more miracles interwoven with the familiar story. Mary's prayer is a unique example of this. Despite her situation, she remained positive and praised God for holding her close during such a scary time.
We can learn from Mary and her joyful prayer to God during her pregnancy. How many times have we rejected God's grace by keeping our fears inside and not praying for assistance? How many times have we failed to use positive or loving words in the midst of extreme challenges or hardship? Christ offers us solace through prayer, and we oftentimes take that opportunity for granted. True miracles happen every day, not just during the holiday. Keep your eyes and hearts open to see the power of God and His mighty works in your life and then thank Him for His provision and protection.
When we lay our lives down through prayer to Christ who came to us in a form of an innocent baby boy in a manger, he cannot help but give you hope and become your mighty savior.
You Can Build or Destroy – Which Do You Choose?
Ouch...that hurts and I can only imagine how our words of "destruction" pierce the heart of our Father in Heaven when one of His children is destroying another with their words. If we were all honest, we would realize that at times we choose to destroy others with our words even if we aren't really thinking that is what we are doing.
Motivation to Move It, Move It!
Some encouraging words to get you to move it, move it. It's the big "E" word - exercise. You will relate to the scenarios and be uplifted with motivation to remember why it is a must!
What's in Your Water?
It is a well known fact that the water we drink has higher levels of contaminants and particles then most of us want. Unfortunately it is not feasible or affordable to live off bottled water, so Will It Kill It has a solution. Learn more about tap water and the water you consume.
