None of the men and women that we have been reading about in the Gospels over the last few weeks, expected to end up in the place they did. Or to be remembered for all eternity as we know them now. They were born into unremarkable homes, most likely had ordinary childhood friends, and expected to follow in the footsteps of their parents or influential community members. But in all cases, God stepped in, changed their direction, and invited each to trust Him in a very individual way. Their obedience not only changed the course of history but also brought them great satisfaction and joy.
Consider Elizabeth. As a girl of her time, she must have dreamed of marrying and filling a house with children. Being barren was devastating. God didn’t tell her his plan; she had to wait and trust. Now she is forever known for her motherhood.
Look at Joseph. He learned from the men in his community how to be a responsible husband and father. He may have thought that he was prepared when he celebrated his betrothal to Mary, but he couldn’t have known how to be a foster father to God incarnate. His unique calling required him to grow even deeper in faith and trust to master that unprecedented task.
Imagine the shepherds. One of the lowliest jobs on the career ladder. Most were uneducated and poor, not expecting many interesting shifts. Then God invited them to be the first witnesses to the most famous, star-studded night in history.
I think throughout our lives we swing back and forth between feeling devastated to feeling confident to feeling weary and insignificant. Christmas should teach us that God has big plans for all of us. And no matter which way our pendulum is swinging today, there is something else ahead that God will be inviting us into. If we respond in faith and trust, we will never be bored and we will experience joy beyond all our predictable expectations.
Scripture: This week, read Luke 2:8-20. What is it saying to you?
Call to Action: God is still writing history and is giving you opportunities to be a saint too. Be open. Trust Him. It is the most rewarding way.
