Foundations Dec 20, 2010

Monday, December 20, 2010
BIBLE IN A YEAR: Ezekiel 16-18 and James 4

SCRIPTURE READING

Luke 2:19 (NIV); But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.

In the middle of these astounding events was Jesus’ mother. The young girl who had submitted obediently to the Lord’s desires and who had come to rejoice in her calling was now a mother, holding her own son – God’s own Son – in her arms. Oh the mysteries of her mind as she sat pensively in her rustic room! She treasured up all that had been spoken to her about this child – who He was and what He would do. Did she understand just how great He would be and how exactly He would rule the throne of David?

Her demeanor is one of contemplation, and is a sharp contrast to the hurried declaration of the excited shepherds. While they were busy responding to the Spirit by spreading the news, she was wondering at what was and would be.

Mary kept her musings in the silence of her heart, something we would do well to practice. It seems that silence is the worst punishment for some. Taking away an iPod or turning off the television for supper is taken as a capital offense! Conversational silences are immediately deemed “awkward”. Our minds, created by God for thinking, learning and imagination, are so quickly filled with meaninglessness. What a tragedy it is when the fantastically-made mind is wasted on poor entertainment and a steady stream of media.

PRAYER and MEDITATION

1.       How is this verse in Luke important to the Christmas story? What does it say to you?

2.       Take your “prayer and meditation” time today (try at least 15 minutes) to find a quiet place and just sit, kneel, stand or lie silently before the Lord. Listen to what HE has to say. Ponder – really THINK – about the things that He places on your heart. RESPOND to Him in whatever way He prompts you be it confession, worship, thanksgiving, or even using your imagination! If you feel your mind is drifting, ask the Holy Spirit to help you focus on His voice and His direction. Journal the things He shows you.

3.       Ask the Holy Spirit how you can keep this inner solitude throughout your day today, even as you interact with others.