Be Encouraged

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"For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus," (Romans 15:4-5)

Passage: Luke 1:26-38

Christmas is a special time of the year. The atmosphere of the season is different than any other time with the decorations, Christmas music, parties, events and time with family and friends. One well known Christmas song has a line that says, "It's the hap, happiest time of the year..." While it is the happiest time for many, the reality is that Christmas is also a very stressful time and even a depressing time for others. Happiness depends on what is happening to you and the Christmas season can be a time that heightens the difficulties or hurts that people have experienced in their lives. 

When Mary received the visit from the angel, Gabriel, who told her that God had chosen her to the mother of the Messiah, that news was both exciting and troubling. Mary believed Gabriel and said yes to joining God in His work, but she still faced the reality that probably no one would believe she had not been unfaithful to Joseph, which could have resulted in her ostracism or even death. After the Spirit brought about the conception of Jesus, Mary got permission to go visit her older relative, Elizabeth, who was pregnant with John, the forerunner of the Messiah. The encouragement Mary received is the kind of encouragement God wants you to have to fully experience Christmas in a way the world or circumstances can never take away. Be encouraged and enjoy the entire season in the Lord. 

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