As 2024 begins to wind down, I am reminded of some of my writing that is started but unfinished. One of the works that is burgeoning in me includes prayers from the Bible. The working title: A Mother’s Prayer. As I have sat with people in difficult situations beyond comprehension, and had no words, I was forced to turn back to God to find words for the unspeakable.

So, with 5 days until Christmas I want to share the words of Mary. Her utterance, song, and prayer has been recited and restated over and over again for thousands of years. This morning, I am challenged and encouraged to look at what came right before her words. Mary (a young girl by historical record) was visited by an angel, told she would carry the son of God. She doubted - “How can this be?” She accepted, journeyed to visit her cousin; experienced two unborn children greet each other, and shard her story with a trusted family member and then she prayed.

This story reminds me that every bit of news comes in the context of time and space. If we are walking in God’s direction - moving forward and upward - He will help us to utter words like Mary did. She stepped into her story, the story, God’s story. This Christmas we have an opportunity - Shall we step into our story?

“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.
His mercy extends to those who fear him,
    from generation to generation.
He has performed mighty deeds with his arm;
    he has scattered those who are proud in their inmost thoughts.
He has brought down rulers from their thrones
    but has lifted up the humble.
He has filled the hungry with good things
    but has sent the rich away empty.
He has helped his servant Israel,
    remembering to be merciful
to Abraham and his descendantsforever,
    just as he promised our ancestors.’

 Mary stayed with Elizabeth for about three months and then returned home.” Luke 1:46-56