You Are Part of the Greatest Story!

The greatest story ever told took place over 2,000 years ago. While many have fallen in love with the story and its humble characters, easily becoming emotionally moved by the birth of our Savior, there is a part of the story that doesn't always get shared.

It's like a gift that is left unwrapped, remaining at the foot of the tree, begging and waiting to be opened.

However, before we get to that gift, let's take a brief look at one of the characters. A character in the story that, like you, was a young woman, full of hopes and dreams. Just an ordinary teenage girl (roughly the age of 15) that loved God and wanted to honor Him with her whole heart. Yet, when she was approached by an angel that declared she would bring the Son of God into the world, her first response may have been one of confusion or concern. She probably felt a mix of emotions: inadequate, unsure, and afraid. So, you can imagine her surprise and response would have been... "Why me?" It was also custom at the time, that a couple that wasn't married (they were merely engaged), would have brought shame to the families, and an unwed woman could have been stoned to death.

But Gabriel, the angel, comforted Mary allowing her to obey and respond with, "Use me."

This story isn't just a beautiful feel-good story, a legend, or a tale of old times. This is the greatest story of "all-time" filled with everyday, ordinary characters, just like you and me. Characters that may have been afraid, yet humbly submitted to the Lord's will and in doing so, brought forth a plan that changed the course of history.

So, where do you fit into this story?

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16

You were thought of way before the birth of the Son. God saw you at the beginning of time. And all He wants - is your heart. He longs for a deep and meaningful relationship with you. Here is where that gift comes in.... God wants you to open "the gift."

The gift of love. Life. Hope. The gift offers a plan for your life, even if it may seem a little scary or confusing. The gift is Jesus being lived out in YOU!

So, will you open the gift God gave you in Jesus today? Will you open your heart and respond with, "Use me, Lord?" Will you push past the fears, the uncertainties and the feelings of inadequacy, and allow God to give you your purpose in this life?

Because when you do that... be ready, girl! Your life isn't going to be so ordinary anymore. It will become extra-ordinary. That is because it won't be about you, but about HIM!

Yes, you will encounter challenges, that's for sure, but the reward for living a life devoted to glorifying God is a priceless gift.

Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift! 2 Corinthians 9:15

May you say "Yes" to that gift and have a Merry Christmas!