December 5th
David and his Dad were heading towards the front door as they were going down to the local shop. Both jumped suddenly as they saw, through the frosted glass the shape of a very large person. Dad opened the door to what could have been the largest postman in the world. The postman apologised for alarming them but said he saw them coming and chose not to ring the bell. The postman handed over a package which Dad left on the porch shelf and the pair continued to the shop. As they walked, David said…
“We’ve been learning about Angels. They are messengers sent by God – a bit like a heavenly postman I suppose. Are Angels really scary?”
“Well, often the first thing they say is “Fear not.” I think I would be a little scared if I met an Angel. We are frequently scared by things we do not yet understand.”
The word Angel simply means messenger and is mentioned twenty-four times in Luke’s gospel alone. Today’s verse is the Angel Gabriel telling Mary what is about to happen, reassuring her that all will be well.
It is not for us to know the mind of God in all things. However, that is not to say that God does not speak to us today. God’s word, the bible, speaks to our heart clearly in a way that we can understand. Our part is to check it out with others, to confirm and to act upon what we believe to be true.
Ask God to speak to you in a way that you will know it is him.
Speak to God in your heart about your worries and be sure God will answer. For God’s words in Joshua 1:5 tells us – No one will be able to stand against you all the days of your life. As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you.
Luke 1: 35-38 The Angel Gabriel visits Mary
The angel answered, “The Holy Spirit will come on you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God. Even Elizabeth your relative is going to have a child in her old age, and she who was said to be unable to conceive is in her sixth month. For no word from God will ever fail.”
“I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered. “May your word to me be fulfilled.” Then the angel left her.
Prayer
Father God, thank you for revealing yourself through Jesus the Christ. Thank you that you continue to reveal your mysteries to us, mere children. Lord may I open my heart to receive your word in my life and to act upon it, bringing your peace to those around me. Amen.
Conversations are two way
We welcome your comments
Tomorrow – Mary