Who am I that you would come to me, Lord?

In the Christmas narrative, Mary, overcome by a growing understanding that she carries the savior of the world in her teenage womb, bursts out in reverent song. She begins “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my savior, for he has looked on the humble estate of his servant” (Luke 1:46-48), and I’m reminded of King David’s question,

If I’m to make room in my own heart for Christ’s coming, I first have to recognize my deep need, especially the need to drive another stake in this donkey-stubborn pride in my own self-sufficiency. Again today, I’m not in a position to save myself.

Lord, before you condescended to step in, I was like a cut flower in a dry vase.

But you gifted me a new life saturated with hope and purpose.

Like Mary, and David before her, I’m overwhelmed that you even took notice of me! What’s more, you offered me a role. I get to help stream your glorious, healing light into a dark and weary world.

Who, me? What joy!
🙌

As 2016 comes to a close, are you reeling from the snowball effect of challenging life events? Could you use some more peace of mind and joy of heart? I hope you’ll join me for the next few weeks as I reflect on John Piper’s daily Advent readings. In the days leading up to Christmas, you can receive these 25 short daily reflections direct to your email inbox. Just scroll down and look for the “Stay Connected” or “Subscribe by Email” box to follow along! Also, you can find and download John Piper’s “Good News of Great Joy” here.

*If you signed up for these emails before December 4, you may receive the first few reflections in the same day as I get aligned with the 25-day format, so that we can all finish together on December 25. As the season ramps up–and your plans go wonky and threaten to derail your focus, ugh–I pray that your heart, soul, and spirit will be blessed and refreshed with a tangible outpouring of Christ’s heavenly peace!