I grew up in a small Baptist church just down the mountain in Marion, N.C. I cannot remember not being in church. So, at the age of 7 (first grade for me) when my good friend walked down the aisle to become a Christian, I did the same. Although I knew somewhat what I was saying publicly, I was truly a “babe in Christ”. My friend and I were baptized on the same day and my life, as a six- year- old generally knows it, went on.
It wasn’t until I attended a church sponsored weeklong summer retreat at Ridgecrest Baptist Assembly I truly made a commitment to Jesus and felt Him speak to me directly. I was going into sixth grade (12 years old) and I will never forget that moment. Up in the balcony while singing “Wherever He Leads I’ll Go” I committed my life to Jesus. During that song I promised the Lord I would “go wherever and do whatever” He led me to do (although I secretly told myself I hoped I wasn’t to go to some far away mission field!).
Through the years I have relived that night in my mind many times. Mary, the mother of Jesus, has been my guide and example in “pondering” God’s direction, voice, and manifest presence in my life. How excited, amazed, blessed, and a bit uncertain, I would imagine, Mary must have felt at the birth of Jesus. The scriptures tell us “. . . Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart” (Luke 2:19 KJV). I would imagine through the years, just like us, Mary continued to “ponder in her heart” the miraculous birth of her son and Savior and relived in her mind the things which God had spoken to her. I would also imagine her “ponderings” brought her comfort, clarity, and courage as she set about carrying out the unimaginable calling on her life.
During our Christian walk on earth we all have those “ponder in our hearts” moments. Certainly not as dramatic as the virgin birth, but nonetheless so important and personal to each of us. When I need encouragement, am seeking direction, need my faith renewed in knowing God is real, is with me and watching over me, I “ponder” some of those specific times I know God has directed my path. I think about that Friday night service at Ridgecrest many years ago. I relive in my mind God’s presence that was so real to me. I recall the times I have heard His voice, felt His presence, and seen His power at work, firsthand, in my own life.
During this Advent season may we “ponder in our hearts” the wonders of God’s grace and goodness in our lives. May we join the heavenly host in praising, honoring and worshipping the King of Kings.
Prayer:
Dear Father, during this most holy of seasons may we ponder in our hearts the wonderful gift of Jesus. May our hearts be stilled to worship your majesty, grace and love for us. Amen
