Read

Mark 1:1
Luke 1:1-38, 3:23-38
John 1:1-18
Matthew 1:1-17

Luke 1:38, “I am the Lord’s servant, and I am willing to do whatever He wants.”

Think

Life in first-century Israel was certainly no cakewalk for an unwed expecting mother. In fact, the consequences were extreme. Imagine Mary as a young girl facing public scorn, social alienation, and the possibility of death by stoning. Yikes!

Mary could have been bitter. She could have said, “Why me, God?” and begged for him to choose someone else – but she didn’t. Mary responded to God with enthusiasm.

Enthusiasm means “In God.” It comes from two words: en theos. Mary placed her faith in God and willingly said, “I’ll do whatever God wants.” For us to be used by God, we, too, must respond with enthusiasm!

The Bible says that if we trust in God and are eager to serve Him, that nothing can harm us. How do you respond when God calls on you to serve? Because chances are, nothing He asks of us could be as consequential as what He asked of Mary.

Enthusiasm is contagious, so help it spread this Christmas season with a willing heart to do whatever, whenever God wants to use you!

Pray

God, I pray for Your will to be done in my life. Give me the courage, faith, and enthusiasm of Mary to do whatever You ask of me to do. In Jesus’ name, Amen.