Treasured up all these things

Scripture: Luke 2:19 (NIV) – "But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart."

As we approach the final days before Christmas, it’s a moment to pause and reflect on the miracle of Jesus’ birth. While the world is often caught up in the rush of shopping, parties, and preparations, we can take a cue from Mary’s response to the birth of her son. In Luke 2:19, we learn that “Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.” In the midst of the extraordinary events surrounding the birth of Jesus, Mary took time to pause, reflect, and treasure the incredible gift she had been given. This moment is a powerful reminder for us to slow down during this season, reflect on the meaning of Christ’s birth, and treasure His presence in our hearts.

Devotional:

Mary’s response to the birth of Jesus was not one of rushing to announce to the world what had happened, nor was it one of quickly moving on to the next thing. Instead, she took the time to reflect deeply, to “ponder” the significance of what was unfolding around her. It’s easy to miss the gravity of the Christmas story if we don’t stop to reflect on it. After the excitement of the angelic announcements, the shepherds visiting, and the overwhelming experience of giving birth to the Savior, Mary chose to reflect and keep these things in her heart.

As we prepare for Christmas, are we too rushing through the season, consumed by the details of the holiday? Are we so focused on the external celebrations that we miss the opportunity to reflect on the true significance of Christ's birth? Like Mary, we are invited to take a step back and ponder the miracle of Christmas. What does it mean that God became flesh and dwelt among us? What does it mean for us personally that Jesus was born to bring salvation to the world?

Mary’s act of treasuring and pondering the events in her heart teaches us that reflection is a vital part of our faith journey. She didn’t just hear about the angels, the prophecies, and the visit of the shepherds; she took time to absorb it, to understand it, and to let it shape her understanding of who Jesus was and what His coming meant.

For us, the Christmas season can be a time of spiritual renewal if we take the time to reflect on what Christ’s birth means. It is not just a historical event, but a personal invitation to embrace the hope, love, and salvation that Jesus brings. Mary’s response calls us to consider deeply how we are receiving Christ into our lives—not just as a story we celebrate once a year, but as the Savior who wants to dwell in our hearts each and every day.

In our busy lives, let us remember to carve out moments of stillness to ponder the goodness of God and His incredible gift to us in Jesus Christ. As we meditate on His coming, we allow His love and peace to fill our hearts in new and profound ways.

Closing Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of Your Son, Jesus. Help us to follow Mary’s example of taking time to ponder the meaning of His birth. May we treasure this season in our hearts, reflecting on the depth of Your love and the significance of Christ’s coming. In a world that rushes and distracts, may we find moments of stillness to focus on the true meaning of Christmas. Fill our hearts with awe and gratitude for the greatest gift of all. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Reflection:

As we enter the final days before Christmas, how can you take time to reflect on the true meaning of Christ’s birth? In what ways can you "ponder" the gift of Jesus in your heart this season? Take a few moments each day this week to reflect on His love and the hope that His birth brings to the world.