“But Mary treasured up all these things, pondering them in her heart.” When I was a young child, I thought the word “ponder” meant to pound. In a child’s mind it made perfect sense for Mary to treasure the things that were happening and pound them into her heart. and even save them for future events. Today I know what that word means, but it makes me think about how children’s minds work and the innocence of the faith they have. Mary’s accepting faith is just the kind that God wants from all of us, whether old or young.

As amazing as the story of the first Christmas seems to some, the fact is that it’s true. God conceived a child in Mary’s womb, so that He could be born human, live as our brother, suffer and hurt just like we do and die. After death He would conquer the devil and rise again to return to His heavenly glory. It is indeed a miraculous story with great mystery involved. No human mind can possible comprehend it, but God had a plan at the beginning of the world and His plan was perfect. He not only was our Creator, but our Savior ad Redeemer.

No longer do we need to fear death, because life lies beyond – a perfect life – the kind God intended for us to inhabit – paradise. Like Jesus, we will suffer in this world. We’ll face adversity and sadness, but when we leave it, we’re guaranteed another life, planned by God – a plan that continues throughout eternity.

Think about it, treasure it and POUND it into your heart.

MERRY CHRISTMAS – UNTO US A CHILD IS BORN!