"Now the birth of Jesus
the Messiah took place this way. When His mother Mary had been engaged to
Joseph, but before they lived together, she was found to be with child from the
Holy Spirit. Her husband Joseph, being a righteous man and unwilling to expose
her to public disgrace, planned to dismiss her quietly" (Matthew
1:18-19).
Mary was good, but
misunderstood. She found great favor with God, but was exposed to public
disgrace with people. Her heart was pure and her intentions were good, but at
first even her husband didn't understand the gift of God within her and the
destiny of God upon her. So along with her calling, You gave Mary the grace to
embrace Your divine assignment with great faith and unwavering
obedience.
In many ways, Mary is a
picture of us, the Body and the Bride of Christ. We carry Christ within us
(Colossians 1:27). The favor and grace of God is upon us (Ephesians 2:8). The
gifts of God flow through us (Romans 12:6). But at the same time, we will often
be misunderstood and mocked, even ridiculed and rejected, despite the best
intentions of our hearts. You prepared us for this, saying, "Servants are not
greater than their master. If they persecuted Me, they persecute you" (John
15:20).
So in those times, help
us hold fast to what we know is true and to what You've called us to do. Send
Your angels to speak to those around us; send Your Holy Spirit to open minds and
change hearts to see what Your doing by Your hand and through Your people. But
even if their eyes don't see and their hearts don't change, let us not bow down
or back away despite whatever public pressure or displeasure we endure. Like
Mary, let us stand firm in the faith, trusting in Your grace, declaring from the
good intentions of our hearts, "Here I am, the servant of the Lord; let it be
with me according to Your word" (Luke 1:38). In Jesus' name I pray,
Amen.
Be
encouraged today! In the Love of Jesus, Tommy Hays
Come
to the Fountain! this Friday Night December 16th at 7 pm. Phil Jackson
will be leading in worship and Tommy Hays will be leading in prayer at our
Messiah Ministries' monthly gathering for Prayer, Praise, and Healing Worship.
Come drink deeply from the Living Waters in intimate worship with healing prayer
ministry with the Body of Christ in our city from many different churches and
streams. All are welcome!
Friends,
please keep Messiah Ministries in mind for your Year-end
Giving. Every contribution is greatly appreciated and truly needed.
Thank you!
