Reflection Day 4
Fiona Campbell
December 04, 2016
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Luke 1:46-49
And Mary said: “My soul glorifies the Lord
and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,
for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant. From now on all generations will call me blessed,
for the Mighty One has done great things for me—holy is his name.
Let’s step into Mary’s shoes for a moment. It’s a scary place to be young, engaged and with a good future opening up for her, the news from Gabriel is potentially a disaster. You and I might’ve been less than impressed, that the plan for our life had been so completely rewritten. But not Mary. This modern painting by Glasgow painter Gerard Burns, seems to catch the moment when Mary ‘gets’ God’s destiny for her. There are difficulties and trials ahead - “A sword will pierce your heart’ someone will helpfully points out. But for Mary, serving God in whatever he calls her to do, fills her heart with real joy. How does the body-language in the picture convey joy. In our Christian journey choosing joy in the face of challenge is a deliberate act, and praising God in seeming adversity, can mobilise our ability to come through successfully.
Lent Disciplines
Pray
Lord, for the things I have to do this week, I praise you !
For the new things you’re going to call me to, I praise you !
For the things I’m dreading, I praise you !
Lord, you see the big picture for my life, and you call me to joy
not disappointment.
In the face of challenges, show me that I can find
the inspiration and strength I need
to come through successfully.
In the face of sadness, show me that you will
hold me up, and give me the strength I need
each day.
I open my heart to your Holy Spirit, and as Mary did
I look for joy in your service.
Amen
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