Week 3: Day 1

Scripture: Matthew 1:18-25

It is so easy to look at the characters of this ancient story and to appreciate their brave obedience. Mary and Joseph, willing to walk into the confusing and the embarrassing and the unknown. They hear the voice of the Holy and they listen and obey. Maybe they weighed the pros and the cons. Maybe they considered the risks. But what is clear is that even in their fear and confusion and questions, they trusted the heart of the one who made them and the one who placed this child within them.

It is so easy to look at the Nativity and see its beauty and adventure. But this story demands something more than appreciation; it demands us to respond. We will completely miss the Nativity if our reading it stops at appreciation. The invitation of this story is for our appreciation to move into the deep groan of gratitude. And, from the depths of our groanings, it invites us into action.

Before he was born, Mary and Joseph believed that their son would come to save his people from their sins. It is this belief that makes their obedience brave and not ridiculous. In spite of the hundreds of reasons it seemed crazy, they believed in the story that has been told since the beginning of this world: they would bear a son called Jesus, and he would be the Messiah. And, he is. He is the one that would change everything. All of creation has been groaning for him.

He is the one you have always longed for.

He is the only one who will fill you. And all gratitude is for him. And all brave obedience is found through him. And this child is inviting you into the adventure his parents knew well.

The Nativity reminds us that we were never meant to live a small life of small obedience.

We were meant to live a life of great adventure because we can trust the one who is the Messiah.

Prayer:

O God, you are my rescue. You are my strength and refuge. You are my help. I will not be afraid, even if the earth gives way and the mountains fall into the sea. Even though the waters might roar and foam and the mountains may tremble. For, I know that you will come and rescue me. Though kingdoms may rage and nations may fall, your help will come as the dawn comes every morning. For, the earth does whatever you tell it to. And you will come and rescue me. For, you are God. You are exalted over all, majestic over all, stronger than all. And even still, you come and rescue me. Amen.

-adapted from Psalm 46