At that time Mary got ready and hurried to a town in the hill country of Judea, where she entered Zechariah’s home and greeted Elizabeth. When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. In a loud voice she exclaimed: “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear! But why am I so favored, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? As soon as the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the baby in my womb leaped for joy. Blessed is she who has believed that what the Lord has said to her will be accomplished!” Luke 1:39-45 (NIV)
Ten more days until Christmas! Have you already been asked at least 10 times this week if you’re ready? It seemed that each time I heard that I’d feel a bit more anxious. I know that it is one of those rhetorical pleasantries, but it really made me think and ask myself, “Am I Ready?” Being a good Army wife, I had to do a little research on readiness. So, I went to my SOP, to come up with a plan and glean some strategies from others getting ready for ‘Christmas.’ I landed at Gabriel’s departure and Mary’s arrival at the door of Zechariah and Elizabeth.
What was Mary’s plan of action? She accepted her special commission, got up and got going to see the first issue of God’s great possibilities!
What was Elizabeth’s readiness response? What was the response of the baby in her womb? Elizabeth received the favor and proclaimed the blessings of the Lord! John leapt for joy!
My Assessment and Readiness Plan: Only through Christ is it possible for me to be shown the favor of being chosen, royal, holy, special and His own – one called out darkness and into His marvelous light! The next time I’m asked if I’m “ready for Christmas” I will say, “Yes, I am blessed!” – and with great joy I’ll leap (with one foot or two, depending on the available space J)!
Oh, I can’t wait to be asked again!
