DECEMBER 5 WAITING FOR MESSIAH By Karen Smith Dean of Women, Word of Life Bible Institute, New York
Today’s Passage: Luke 1:26–32
Since the fall of man, the Old Testament writings have pointed to a Messiah. Like a scarlet thread that begins in Genesis and traces its way through the books of history, poetry, and prophecy, the promise of Messiah is the theme of God’s redemption plan. The Jewish people were looking, waiting, and longing for their Messiah. In the obscure town of Nazareth, there was a teenager named Mary who had been raised to hope and pray for the Messiah. The day came when she received the surprise angelic visit. “Greetings, you are highly favored! The Lord is with you!” The Scripture tells us she was very afraid and couldn’t understand the angel’s greeting. The angel responds gently to her fear explaining God’s plan for her to give birth to the Messiah. She responded with humility and trust in the Lord. All the hopes, dreams and prayers are now becoming reality, and God had chosen her to be part of His magnificent plan. Everything changed that day for Mary, and for Joseph, too. The simple life they planned together was now gloriously complicated with a holy purpose. The scarlet thread intersected their lives, and they became part of God’s Messianic plan and redemption story. The awe and wonder of it all! Everything changed for us, too. Jesus’ coming means the gift of salvation is offered to everyone. You and I won’t have a visit like Mary’s, but as we recognize Jesus as the Promised Messiah and receive Him as our Savior, we are participating in God’s redemptive plan. The scarlet thread continues today as we follow Him in obedience, love those around us and point others to the only Savior, Jesus. May we, like Mary, say, “I am the Lord’s servant,” and allow Him to use us in whatever way He sees fit for His glory.
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