~ Luke 1:41
This morning my devotion brought me to Mary's visit w/ Elizabeth. (This Advent season I started once again Jesus, 90 Days with the One and Only by Beth Moore)
After the reading, Beth asks the reader to "Stop and Consider" a verse of the daily reading. Today's was verse 41 from the 1st Chapter of Luke. The first thing I wrote down was "even the unborn can know him" It hit me that John the Baptist, though unborn lept w/in Elizabeth's womb. That happened prior to the Holy Spirit opening Elizabeth's eyes, understanding that Mary was carrying Jesus.
It was no accident that I ventured to my friend Sarah's blog (Nesting in Pleasantview) this morning... Sarah is carrying a child. This has been a particularly difficult week for her... and in her grief... her little girl was turning somersaults... reminding her of God's promise. Yes... as Sarah cried out to the Lord, her unborn baby girl was how God communicated His peace. I just love how God does that! Yes, He can even use and unborn child to witness His message. How awesome is that!!!
I was reminded of this verse from the book of Jeremiah: "Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart..." (Jeremiah 1:5) Isn't it wonderful... He set Sarah's unborn child apart... she is a witness even yet unborn! He knows her, loves her and can use her as His instrument even within her mother's womb. That takes my breath away.
I pray that you are leaping with joy as you anticipate the coming of the Christ Child. That in this busy season you are able to slow down, listen and hear God's whisper, preparing and shaping your hearts and homes for Emmanuel, God with Us! Come Lord Jesus!!!
I also wanted to share this photo of my pup, Jet. I took the photo this morning as we relaxed by the fire and the tree! He looks pretty comfy! Ah another joy of the season....
10 comments:
Can I come over and just sit with your tree and pooch for awhile? Awesome. I just feel the warmth.
I've always loved this portion of the story and thought about John (whose mission in life would be to make straight the heart for the King) and his first task of heart preparation...his mother. It's quite profound and wonderfully moving to know that these babies carried such prophetic purpose. In many ways, we share the same. We are called to carry Jesus and the announcement of his arrival and kingship to everyone.
So lovely and wonderful to be given such a gift.
Love you friend. God's peace and provision this Advent season be yours and Jim's.
~elaine
Love that tree and fireplace, it is so inviting. Makes me want to go downstairs and start a fire...maybe I will.
Thanks for sharing your insight. You are so positive...I love coming here to visit:)
Oh, wow! Can I come sit by that fire and sip some hot cocoa? I long for a white Christmas or even a white anything! Here in Louisiana we rarely get anything that even remotely looks wintery. Loved that post. I am sitting here with my youngest daughter who is carrying her 2nd little boy and watching him "leap for joy" in her womb! What a miracle. Thanks for your blessed insight.
Beth Herring
I love that story too. I still remember how wonderful it was to feel my own babies "leap for joy"! And your pup looks darn cozy there... we can't keep the animals away from the fireplace when it's on...sometimes all three dogs and both cats are lined up in front of it. :)
Kristen,
A beautiful post, absolutely beautiful.
Love,
Yolanda
I want to sit with you there, too! I will take some hot chocolate, please! I really want to enjoy this season. REALLY enjoy it like it was the first time! Thanks for bringing this to my attenion. I need to refocus!
Love,
Angie xoxo
I am leaping...as is my baby girl. Thank you Kristen. Have a wonderful day.
That was beautiful, Kristen. I have goose pimples. I love that story so much!
And seeing your dog all comfy and cozy in front of the Christmas tree with the fire going makes me think of the classic Christmas song....."Chestnuts roasting on an open fire, Jack Frost nipping at your nose....."
*Sigh*
I do enjoy the holidays!
Merry Christmas to you!
Happy Birthday, Baby Jesus!
Amy:)
This is such a beautiful post!! And your sweet doggie makes that picture look so comfy. Your home is just beautiful! Have a great night...
This is a beautiful post today Kristen! Not only do you have wonderful thoughts, but the tour of your home is great! I do think you have more trees than me! ;)
Blessings,
Carol
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