Treasures in My Heart
Traci
What a day! At nine months pregnant she had traveled many miles on the back of a donkey on her first road trip with Joseph. Then, when she was about to give birth, there was no place found for them to stay - no place to deliver the baby. They found shelter and warmth in a stable where they were likely in the presence of barn animals. Finally, Mary gave birth (a first-time experience) to Jesus, God's own son!
Then, to their surprise (I would imagine) they were greeted by shepherds. Most nativity sets depict just one shepherd, but in Luke 2:15 we read, "The shepherds said to one another, 'Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.'” So there were many shepherds who arrived on the scene and left glorifying and praising God, telling everyone about what they had seen and heard.
"But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart," Luke 2:19.
CJ treasure
I used to think Mary treasured and pondered this beautiful moment while holding God's son in her arms. I still think she did, but I also believe that she treasured and pondered the whole experience from the time she found out she was pregnant until the shepherds left rejoicing.
Why did Mary hold all these things in her heart? Because no one else could understand or even begin to comprehend all she had seen, heard, believed, and felt. No one.
These thoughts about Mary came to me as I considered all I have experienced this past year. I have done much pondering, but many things keep popping out of my mouth and heart. I keep attempting to express them and draw understanding from others. I leave those conversations feeling empty and dissatisfied. Maybe it's time to take all these "treasures" and share them solely with Jesus; to hold the beautiful and ugly in my heart and then let Jesus hold my healing heart.
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Someday, when the time is right and my heart is healed enough, it will come out just right. I will be able to express the best things to help others. It will satisfy because it will fit my purpose of enriching others' lives. It will Be Extraordinary!
Is there anything in your life that needs a little more treasuring and pondering within before it comes out? Jesus, the great Healer, wants to touch those areas of your life as only He can. He is the One who knows what you have been through and what you are going through. Take it all to Him - ponder and treasure those things in your heart - and let Jesus share the joys and sorrows of your unexplainable journey.
Be Extraordinary!
(I’m Traci, the "Be Extraordinary!" blogger. I share insights that challenge and encourage moms to be the best version of themselves. To me, that’s an extraordinary life! Click HERE to receive blog updates and a free newsletter.)