MARY'S TEACHABLE MOMENT

Christianity's most popular display during the Christmas celebration of the birth of Christ is the Nativity Scene. Believers see it as evidence of the humility of Jesus. After all, the Creator of the Universe chose to be born a helpless child, instead of coming as a conquering king. He chose to be born of a virgin, to be the offspring of the seed of a woman who had not known a man (Gen. 3:15; Isa. 7:14; Matt. 1:23).

Mary found favor in God's sight (Lk. 1:30). The word translated "favour" is from the Greek χάρις (charis), which means "grace" or "unmerited favor." Just as Noah before her, Mary was not picked by God because she was righteous; she was picked because God decided to pick her. And just like the rest of humanity, Noah and Mary were sinners in need of a Savior (Gen. 6:8; Lk. 1:47; Rom. 3:23).

No mention of Joseph is found in Scripture after the occasion where Jesus was left behind at the age of twelve (Lk. 2:42). The last reference to Mary, the Lord's mother, was on the Day of Pentecost, when she was with the rest of the disciples in the upper room (Acts 1:14). We have no record from Scripture of the death of either Joseph or Mary. I believe the reason is simple: they were "instruments" God used to raise His only begotten Son. The Bible is about Jesus.

Mark Lowry wrote an accurate picture of Mary in his song, "Mary Did You Know?" which can be seen and heard at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=P0WIJw8JVeU I hope you enjoy it this Christmas.

Mary did you know that your baby boy will one day walk on water?
Mary did you know that your baby boy will save our sons and daughters?
Did you know that your baby boy has come to make you new?
This child that you've delivered, will soon deliver you.

Mary did you know that your baby boy will give sight to a blind man?
Mary did you know that your baby boy will calm a storm with his hand?
Did you know that your baby boy has walked where angels trod?
And when you kiss your little baby, you have kissed the face of God.

The blind will see, the deaf will hear and the dead will live again.
The lame will leap, the dumb will speak, the praises of the lamb.

Mary did you know that your baby boy is Lord of all creation?
Mary did you know that your baby boy will one day rule the nations?
Did you know that your baby boy is heaven's perfect Lamb?
This sleeping child you're holding is the great I am.