Monday, July 12, 2021
Today’s Scripture
Today’s Author
Sarah Kate Bumgarner
The birth narrative of Jesus reads very differently when you’re also expecting a baby. As I write this, I’m like Elizabeth in the sixth month of my pregnancy. We’ve all heard this story a thousand times, but for me, reading it now feels unique. This time, I’m more focused on these women and their astounding faithfulness and courage.
God asks both Mary and Elizabeth to carry heavy burdens. Elizabeth is too old to have a baby and Mary is too young. Mary is unmarried—scandalous and dangerous for the mother of God. They should be terrified of this news the angels bring them. Instead, they laugh and meet the work of God with grace, acceptance, and joy. Reading past verse 38 we hear that Elizabeth’s baby leaps in her womb at the sound of Mary’s voice. Mary sings about God’s mercy that scatters the proud and lifts up the lowly. Both women demonstrate for us how to faithfully undertake and participate in the surprising and unexpected work of God.
Like Mary and Elizabeth, we’re rarely called to places of security and comfort to spread God’s message. Rather, we’re called out of our safe havens into uncertainty where we have no choice but to trust God. These women remind us that we can’t expect doing God’s work to be unchallenging or effortless, but we can count on a journey filled with trials, but also with laughter and joy.
Summer Devotional
God Goes With Us
This summer’s devotional is a walk through the Bible. Join our pastors and staff for daily reflections on scripture passages from Genesis to Revelation. In the beginning, God said, “I will be your God and you will be my people.” Come and see how this covenant promise changes through time yet remains steadfast from generation to generation.
Each Sunday, Chris Holmes will share a short message on the texts for the week, and written reflections will go out every Monday through Thursday morning.
We wish you blessings and deeper faith this summer!
