Her life would be forever changed. What choice would she make? She would face doubts from many, ridicule from most, but her heart belonged to God. Risking the love and security she had known in her young life, she said, "Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word." Luke 1:38. Believing God’s Word, delivered by Gabriel, Mary stepped in faith to follow the path God laid out for her. Mary pondered and treasured the things of God in her heart.
Her life could be forever changed. Among hostility, she dared to encounter Jesus, face to feet, she brought Him what she had to give, her costly perfume, her broken heart, her sincere adoration. He knew about her life and her choices. Yet, He loved her and gave her hope for a future. She was not bound in her past-He set her free from the guilt of her sins. He gave her peace for her journey. Did she choose to run the race of faith? (Luke 7:36-50)
What am I willing to risk for Him? Everything I see, touch and know on this earth? Approval of man, earthly belongings, and selfish pride become hurdles for my heart and mind as I run after the LORD and His path for me.
Training the heart to love like Jesus will not be without cost. For: “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails” (1 Cor. 13:4-8a). Jesus modeled this love every step He took on earth.
Training the mind to think like Jesus requires heavenly focus. “Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable-if anything is excellent or praiseworthy-think about such things.” Phil. 4:8 Jesus always thought of others and their needs, then unselfishly acted on their behalf-regardless of His personal cost.
Focusing on Jesus, the author and perfector of faith, conforming heart and mind to His plan is possible because with God all things are possible. One man, focused on Jesus alone, forgetting the wind and waves all around, walked on water (for a step or two anyway)! What adventure does He have for you and me as we focus on Him and serve others who need Him? “Let us lay aside every encumbrance, and the sin which so easily entangles us and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us,” Heb. 12:1b
Gracious, Holy Father,
May Your glory and majesty fill our hearts. Thank You, Father, for your Word and Your Spirit. Thank You for the choice You place before us. Give us courage to choose You each moment. Cleanse our hearts and minds, and open them to all You desire of us. Help us to love extravagantly, to serve joyfully those You place in our path. May we ponder and treasure life with You. Thank You, Father, for every blessing and trial You bestow. We rest in Your wisdom. May Your peace guard our hearts and minds as we run after Jesus, our Savior.
In His precious name, Amen.
Mischelle Oliver
Stephenville, Texas
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