Jesus came to earth to fulfill a promise and a purpose. His mission was the cross. When God spoke His blessing over Mary and baby Jesus, he did not mean a life of ease. Hebrews 12:2 says, “keeping our eyes on Jesus, the source and perfected of our faith, who for the joy that lay before Him endured a cross and despised the shame and has sat down at the right hand of God’s throne. How did Jesus find joy in His heavy calling? He stayed focused on God and only doing what the Father did. He was about doing His father’s business. His love is so great that He was willing to sacrifice His own life and call it joy.
What about Mary? She was asked to endure a sacrifice. Yes! Quite different than Jesus’ sacrifice. Yet, she did have to sacrifice. She sacrificed her reputation. Prophesies spoke of the virgin that would bore the Messiah. Have you ever pondered on what it was like for Mary to be the “One”? The pregnant girl before she said her vows. This whole situation was scandalous. I mean, who would believe her story? Did she share her encounter with an angel with others? Did she focus on the people or stayed focused on God and His promises?
Mary focused on the joy set before her as she accepted God’s call on her life. Reread the scripture at the top! With her steadfast trust in God, she sang a song of praise. It was a joyous song and a comforting song that stirs hope in our hearts. Mary’s faith is on fire, which ignites her joy.
Joy means rejoice- exceedingly, make glad, to glory (whether with reason or without), to glory on account of a thing, is a thing. This is how others feel when good news is brought forth—Elizabeth, Mary’s cousin. People, especially the women, were very joyful about Elizabeth being pregnant. They were ecstatic with joy. This is also how baby John felt in the women when Mary came to visit them. When pregnant, Mary came into the presence of Elizabeth and baby John in the womb. Baby John leaped in the womb. He had exceeding joy!
This season I pray that you will have exceeding joy just as Mary did. May your heart be prepared during this advent season for what God is calling you to do.
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank you for your joy. I pray that as we go through life, we will be focused on you and see the joy you bring.
In Jesus Name
Amen
