Now the birth of Jesus Christ took place in this way. When his mother Mary had been betrothed to Joseph, before they came together she was found to be with child from the Holy Spirit.
– Matthew 1:18
That cost points us forward to the greater price the Child Himself would pay. The Baby she would carry in her womb would one day be pierced for our transgressions. Mary’s faithful “yes” placed her at the foot of that cross years later. Only through His pain, not hers, are we redeemed, yet her costly obedience reminds us how seriously God takes our sin and how personally He entered our brokenness to save us.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, thank You for Mary’s courageous “yes” that brought You into our world. Forgive me for wanting the joy of Christmas without counting the cost of following You. Help me, like Mary, to lay down my fears and reputation for Your sake. Give me grace to embrace whatever price obedience brings, remembering the far greater price You paid on the cross for me. Amen.
Meditation
What fears or potential costs are holding you back from saying “yes” to God in some area of your life? How does Mary’s example encourage you to trust and obey?