Wednesday, December 14, 2022
Humility has always been a difficult word for me to define. Webster says it’s the “state of being humble, which is modest or meek in spirit; not proud or assertive.”
The Gospel of Luke tells the stories of when the Angel Gabriel delivered unimaginable birth announcements to the aging Zechariah and Elizabeth (John the Baptist’s parents) and to the Virgin Mary. Zechariah asked Gabriel, “How can I be sure this will happen? I’m an old man now, and my wife is also well along in years” (Luke 1:18). His doubts left him literally speechless until after baby John was born. Then he was filled with the Holy Spirit and given a prophecy.
Luke 1:76 & Luke 1:79
76 “And you, my little son, will be called the prophet of the Most High, because you will prepare the way for the Lord. … 79 to give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, and to guide us to the path of peace.”
Gabriel’s visit to Mary was to tell her she would be the mother of Jesus, the Son of the Most High. Confused and disturbed, she asked “But how can this happen?” (Luke 1:34). Unlike Zechariah, Mary did not doubt—she submitted herself to the Lord's will.
Luke 1:38
Mary responded, “I am the Lord’s servant. May everything you have said about me come true.” And then the angel left her.
Mary was engaged to be married. Imagine the controversy her pregnancy would have caused. In those times, she could have been stoned to death!
Yet, how exciting for them to be noticed and blessed by God in such a manner! Even so, they didn’t brag about the special gifts they received from God. They gave God glory and spoke of his kindness, goodness, and mercy. This is what God asks of us all.
Micah 6:8
No, O people, the Lord has told you what is good, and this is what he requires of you: to do what is right, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God.
Christmas can be a hard time of year to be humble. Our budgets don’t always allow us to buy the expensive gifts we’d like to give. It’s also hard to accept gifts that can’t be equaled. “It’s the thought that counts” can be a hurtful expression. However, staying within a budget honors God more than overextending and going into debt. God has blessed each of us with our resources and the responsibility to steward them wisely. He has also given us a warning about coveting our neighbors' blessings.
Let’s be reminded that Christmas is a celebration of the birth of our Savior, not a celebration of consumerism. I hope your Christmas is especially blessed because you have received the greatest gift of all—Jesus.
Questions:
Can you imagine what it must have been like to be visited by an angel? Would you find it hard to believe an angel promising a miracle to you? What is your most cherished Christmas gift?
Next Steps:
Read Luke 1-2. Ponder these chapters in your heart. Invite five people to come to a church service with you at CedarCreek, and be prepared to tell them why they should accept the invitation.
Prayer:
Father, you have given us a priceless gift in Jesus, your Son and our Savior. We did not earn this gift, nor do we deserve it, but we accept it! Help us to keep our eyes, our ears, and especially our hearts focused on Jesus this Christmas season. Give us the courage, the strength, and the opportunity to share our faith with others and invite them in. Thank you, Lord, for being the most precious gift that I can receive and give! In Jesus’ name, amen.
Parent resource:
Read Luke 2:8 together as a family. Roast marshmallows for s’mores while looking up at the stars – the same ones the shepherds saw! (Or make them in the oven and eat them by candlelight.)
This post was written by Julie Estep, a regular contributor to the LivingItOut, who is grateful for the opportunity to reflect, write, and share what God is doing in her life. She’s glad you came today!