"Mary set out in those days and traveled to the hill country in haste . . . where she entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth." // Luke 1:39-40
What’s on your gift list this year?
My screen lit up as the text came in, and, for the first time, I actually considered the implications behind it. I had always been chock full of ideas about what I wanted for Christmas, yet far less excited to brainstorm gifts for others. I desired what the world prized, items that promised to impress others, increase my comfort, or bolster my sense of self-worth.
As I thought about the perspective the world tries to sell us—one that objectifies based on accomplishment, appearance, intellect, and possessions—I allowed myself to also wonder about God’s perspective.
What do YOU want me to desire, God?
In response, He showed me that I wasn’t asking for too much; I was desiring too little.
Our Blessed Mother Mary models a different way; a way to truly receive that authentically fulfills.
She says no to the world’s perspective by saying yes to God. She says no to the endless anxiety of achieving and possessing by saying yes to fully receiving the gift of Christ.
That yes immediately propels her to share Christ with others as she hastens to bring Him to Elizabeth. His indwelling presence filled and fulfilled Mary to overflowing, which in turn inflames Elizabeth’s heart with joy beyond anything the world could offer.
Our Blessed Mother knows what we long for, even more than the possessions or perfectionism we might seek. She carried Christ to Elizabeth in haste because she knew there was no better gift on earth. And, this Christmas season, she wants to do the same for you.
She’s not waiting for better timing. She’s not waiting for you to think you’re more worthy, more acceptable, or perfect enough for Jesus. She’s bringing Him to you now, in haste.
Imagine Our Mother hurrying to you now, pregnant with His truth of your worth—bursting to overflow with His love.
Will you receive her? Let her minister to you? Let her bear Christ to you in the most personal of ways?
This Christmas, sister, ask for the grace to truly receive the Greatest Gift of all time.
There was no better gift on earth. // @Megan_HjelmstadClick to tweet
Megan Hjelmstad (“Helm-stead”) is a wife, enthusiastic hockey mom, and Army Veteran living in Denver, CO. After serving fifteen years in the United States Army, Megan now serves the Church as an author, speaker, and women's mentor in her “spare” time. Megan loves to share God’s hope in suffering and is the author of Offer it Up: Discovering the Power and Purpose of Redemptive Suffering. She’s a long-time team member of Blessed is She and a writer and speaker for several other ministries. Megan adores books, sleep, sunshine, and Colorado’s great outdoors almost as much as she adores Jesus in the Eucharist. Learn more at MeganHjelmstad.com.
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