Facing the Unknown

Read Matthew 1:1-17

My dad would have been 58 this year. I was reminded of this by my Swedish grandmother, Mor Mor. Not that I needed the reminder, but I did enjoy the dozen black and white photographs she passed along on November 1, what would have been his birthday. Pictures she carefully placed in a now-decades-old album capturing moments in time. Each photograph diligently labeled. One showing a bundled toddler sitting stoic on his father’s lap; “January ’64, Danny: 14 mo. Dallas’ record snowfall: 71/2 inches.” The list goes on: “Danny: 9 1/2 months,” “Danny: 1 year.”  

As I looked through the vintage photos sent via iPhone, I couldn’t help but envision my Mor Mor as a young mother, proudly watching her firstborn son. She would be bubbling with pride at his first steps, his first catch, and yes, his first glimpse of snow in Dallas. All the while, I’m sure she had hesitations, uncertainty, and even fears as a first-time mother doing her best to raise a little boy to love Jesus. Faithfully, she pushed on.  

I picture Mary having similar motherly concerns and apprehensions. I’m sure she was worried about the well-being of Jesus. Perhaps she was the tired mother that so many of us can relate to. On top of that, what a great responsibility Mary must have felt lulling Jesus to sleep, knowing she held the Son of God. Mark Lowry’s “Mary Did You Know” paints a beautiful picture: “When you kiss your little baby, you kiss the face of God.” Wow. Given her circumstances, Mary could have easily given in to the fear and uncertainty of her situation. Yet, she embraced God’s calling and faithfully surrendered as a servant of the Lord. She said “yes” even when “yes” meant facing the unknown.  

This year has brought much uncertainty. So many things have been difficult to understand and have caused fear in the every day. How thankful we can be that we serve an almighty God who knows exactly what is happening. This Christmas season, may we think of Mary and as we continue to move forward in faith and say “yes” to God’s calling. 

For Family Discussion: If you could ask Mary just one question, what would it be? 

For Personal Reflection: How can knowing the stories behind the people in Jesus’ genealogy—all of their adventures, faith, and struggles—inspire you? Who were the significant spiritual people who influenced your faith and journey with Christ? What did they pass on to you? 

by Brittany Presutti