But Mary kept all these things in her heart and thought about them often. – (Luke 2:19, NLT)
Mary continued to think about these things, trying to understand them. – (Luke 2:19, ERV)
Mary committed these things to memory and considered them carefully. – (Luke 2:19, CEB)
Mary, too, pondered all of these events, treasuring each memory in her heart. – (Luke 2:19, VOICE)
The chain of events leading to and surrounding the birth of Jesus, must have been more than enough to keep Mary’s mind on constant overload. Angelic visits and prophecies, miraculous pregnancies, having to travel by donkey in the desert, arriving only to be turned away at all of the possible places to stay, giving birth in a stable, having shepherds show up… Mary was now mother to the Son of God. I imagine she vacillated back and forth between bewilderment and amazement at the role that she had been called to fill. Her faithfulness and trust in God was apparent, as she said “yes” to that which she had been called to do by God. Each of these events to treasure, were likely the things that gave her courage and strength in times of uncertainty as Jesus grew. Today, as many of us participate in candlelight services, may we ponder all of the events surrounding the birth of Jesus, and treasure them in our hearts, so that we too, will find courage and strength in times of uncertainty.
Joining to gather, 
In candlelight glow;
Sing of our Savior,
Arrival we know.
Born in a stable,
Such a humble birth;
Path for us to know,
The depth of our worth.
For God sent His Son,
To show love to all;
Let us each embrace,
Grace to which we’re called.
Dear Heavenly Father, thank You that You show us how to stop in awe and wonder of all that took place surrounding the birth of Jesus through the example of Mary. Thank You that You did not call the equipped, but rather You equipped the called. Thank You that You used ordinary people to do the extraordinary to change the course of history forever; a young girl, a carpenter, some shepherds, an inn keeper with a bit of compassion – each with a role that led us to why we celebrate this most holy season. Forgive us for breezing through the day as if it is just another holiday. Teach us to stop and ponder the magnitude of what You have done for us, so that we will treasure it all in our hearts. Show us how to love those around us with a love that is tangible and worth treasuring. May many come into a lasting relationship with You, as they are introduced or reminded of Who You are and all that You have done through the glorious gift of Your Son. Be glorified O God, as we ponder and treasure the reason for the season. Amen.
© Shannon Elizabeth Moreno and Revelations in Writing, May 2011 – present
Is anyone happy? Let him sing songs of praise. – James 5:13
Revelations In Writing 