And Mary said, “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her.

- Luke 1:38

As I gather with family each Christmas, I can’t help but think of that first Christmas family gathering as Mary and Joseph cradled their newborn son.

As Mary gazed at her baby boy, I wondered if she knew the suffering ahead of her and those who loved Jesus. What must her thoughts have been as she held God’s Son? As Mary examined Jesus’s tiny fingers and toes, did she lovingly count each one and stroke His sweet face? Did she hum to Him as she wrapped Him in His swaddling clothes? Did she know her son, God’s Son, was born to suffer and would one day endure the cross?

In Matthew 1:21 (ESV), we are told, “The angel told Joseph: “…and she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name Jesus: for he shall save his people from their sins.”

As believers, we often think that when we accept Jesus as our Savior and invite Him into our lives, He will make everything wonderful.

However, the Scriptures tell us something different. John 16:33 (ESV) says, “I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world, you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”

We are to expect trials and tribulations.

But Jesus doesn’t leave us in our pain and afflictions.

Instead, He tells us to “take heart” because He has overcome the world. James 1:12 (ESV) tells us, “Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.”

As long as we are here on earth, we will face trials, difficulties, and pain. However, these are temporary because this is not our home. Our home is with Christ in heaven, where we will reside with our Lord and Savior for eternity.

Prayer: Dear Jesus, thank you for reminding me that You understand each difficulty and struggle I endure. One day, I will reside with You in heaven, where every tear will be wiped away, and I will dwell in Your house forever. Amen.

With Love,
Sherry Shepherd