Feeling Plain and Ordinary Today?

Feeling rather plain and ordinary today? 

Too ordinary to be part of something extraordinary?

Consider Mary and Joseph. They probably considered themselves to be not very special, just another couple planning on getting married and to blend in with the other dozens of couples who populated the area.

But that angel had told Mary that she was not ordinary. That she would be mother to a special Son, to be conceived by God's Holy Spirit, no less, and who would reign over a kingdom that would never end! She and Joseph were not royalty! They weren't religious leaders! Her response to the angel's message was not eager excitement, but humble willingness -- "May your word to me be fulfilled," she said. Her humble "yes" became a doorway for God's salvation, through His Son Immanuel, to enter this world.

Joseph also faced a choice. Social pressure, confusion, fear and doubt, could have driven him away. But when he listened to the angel, he chose to obey. He was also told the birth was from the Holy Spirit and the special Son would save people from their sins! How peculiar! But he chose to obey. He would protect Mary and raise Jesus as his son.

Think about this: Joseph never says a word in scripture, but his actions speak volumes about quiet, faithful obedience --and about doing what was right!

Mary and Joseph show us that being chosen by God often cones with challenges, requiring courage and strength. But God provides for those He calls. Willingness is the first step to being used by God.

Think about what God is calling you to do right now. You may not feel ready but neither did Mary and Joseph. What set them apart was not talent or status -- it was trust and obedience! God honors those who say "yes", even when it is costly.

And their obedience was very costly! Think about Simeon at the temple, taking Jesus up in his arms, and telling Mary, "And a sword will pierce your own soul, too." 

And remember Mary at the cross!