on keeping and pondering

Good morning! My name is Charlotte and I am writing to help us give our first thoughts of the day to the Lord.

Luke 2:19 says But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart.

Mary and Joseph were servants of the Lord. So many things happened so fast - they were just a young couple. They did not understand what was happening. Even when he was a young boy Luke writes:

Now his parents went to Jerusalem every year at the feast of the passover. And when he was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem after the custom of the feast.

And when they had fulfilled the days, as they returned, the child Jesus tarried behind in Jerusalem; and Joseph and his mother knew not of it. (This is kinda 'Home Alone' backwards)

But they, supposing him to have been in the company, went a day's journey; and they sought him among their kinsfolk and acquaintances. And when they found him not, they turned back again to Jerusalem, seeking him.

And it came to pass, that after three days they found him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the doctors, both hearing them, and asking them questions. And all that heard him were astonished at his understanding and answers.

Don't you know they were panicked. Four days he had been missing. For three days they looked for him in Jerusalem and could not find him. Can you imagine what a nightmare that was!

And when they saw him, they were amazed: and his mother said unto him, Son, why have you thus dealt with us? behold, thy father and I have sought thee sorrowing.

And he said unto them, How is it that you sought me? did you not know that I must be about my Father's business?

And they understood not the saying which he spake unto them.

And he went down with them, and came to Nazareth, and was subject unto them:

The only account of Jesus not being in subjection to his parents was this occasion. Actually, he was about his Father's business, but Mary and Joseph did not understand that. He must have been a marvelous child - just being in subjection to his parents. The great I AM being in subjection to a young mom and dad. What a joy, but what a responsibility!

but (there it is again) his mother kept all these sayings in her heart.

And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man.

Over two thousand years have passed since Jesus was born. He still is the greatest influence of any living creature and will remain so until he returns again. His Word sells more books than any book on the best seller's list, and his love and grace still reaches down to man to change lives, bring miracles, and instill peace in hearts which no other man can do.

Thank you, Jesus, for accepting this lowly place on earth to live and die to give us salvation which comes only through you. Thank you for your healing and your miracles which reaches down to us even today. In Jesus Name. Amen. (it is done)

Have a great last day of 2007!

Charlotte