Soon our church will hold our yearly Christmas event for our community, Christmas in the Valley. We love to host this event! In the coming weeks, Christmas decorations will be gathered and put in place. All will be made ready to celebrate the sights and sounds of Christmas with our neighbors!

Several years ago, a woman with wonderful, creative talent led the decorating team. She had a vision in mind and a team assembled to implement her ideas. One day she began to feel a bit overwhelmed by the task and was encouraged by one of her team. Her friend reminded her, “You have created a beautiful plan in your mind. We are here to help you accomplish your plan. Just tell us how to do it.” My thoughts went back to this conversation, as I considered Mary’s response to the angel Gabriel when he came and gave her a special message from God.

“And he came to her and said, “Greetings, O favored one, the Lord is with you!…Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High.” (Luke 1:28, 30-32a)

As God began to put His plan of redemption in place, He chose Mary to be the mother of the Savior of the world. Mary’s response was the question. “How will this be, since I am a virgin?” (Luke 1:34) She heard God’s plan and wanted to know how He would accomplish it. No unbelief was found in her question, but rather wondering how she could have a son, being a virgin. She accepts God’s plan with complete trust knowing she could face public shame, divorce, ridicule and possible death. Knowing what her future could be, she spoke in faith and quietly submitted to God’s will.

We serve the same God as Mary. She so easily moved forward to obey His will, because she knew her God. She knew His plan was far better than any plan she could come up with. Because we serve the same sovereign, loving God as Mary, we know God has a beautiful plan for each one of us. While we may not always see or understand His plan, like Mary, we can respond “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word.” (Luke 1:38)

If you are in the area, we would love for you to attend Christmas in the Valley! Join us Sunday, December 14 from 4-6 p.m. at Northfield Baptist Church, 311 West Aurora Road, Northfield.