Take time to ponder

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

Parents love to remember the developmental milestones of their children. They will record in a baby book when their little ones first roll over, then crawl, and take their first steps. Often they will take photographs and save baby clothing to bring back the memories of those precious experiences.

According to Luke 2:19, Mary, the mother of Jesus, kept a baby book of sorts — in her heart. She treasured the promises that had been given about her Son and “pondered them.” The Greek word for “ponder” means “placing together for comparison.” Mary had heard of great things concerning her Son from angels and shepherds (1:32; 2:17-18). As His life unfolded, she would compare those promises with how her Son acted to fulfill them.

Our faith will be strengthened and we will be encouraged when we meditate on what the Scriptures say about God and compare it with the way He works in our own lives (John 14:21). He is a God who answers prayer (1 John 5:14-15), comforts us in our suffering (2 Cor. 1:3-4), and provides for our needs (Phil. 4:19).

When we take time to ponder, we will see the faithfulness of our great God.     — Dennis Fisher

Pardon for sin and a peace

that endureth,

Thine own dear presence

to cheer and to guide,

Strength for today and bright

hope for tomorrow —

Blessings all mine, with ten

thousand beside! — Chisholm

READ: Luke 2:8-19

God gives by promise

that we may take by faith.

The Bible in one year:

• Psalms 66-67; Romans 7