A Christmas Baby
Expecting my first baby at Christmas-time lends a little new wonder to the season. Not only am I pregnant, I’m in my third trimester, so I’m acutely aware of my little son throughout the day (and night!). He kicks, wiggles, and pushes, delighting us with his precious existence. And while Advent is upon us and Christmas gets closer, God has used baby Christian to open my eyes a bit more to the mystery and miracle of the incarnation.
I’ve been reading through the gospels over the past week or two, and the other day I reached Luke 1-2. The familiar words held a new depth for me, especially in two ways.
1) Mary’s obedient, humble, trusting willingness to carry and give birth to the Savior.
Her only inquiry was how this miracle would come about, since she was a virgin. Her only response was, ““Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word” (Luke 1:38). And she overflowed with praise in God’s goodness to her (vv. 36-55).
While reading this chapter, I wondered what Mary’s pregnancy was like. I thought, She must have never seen fit to complain about any of the woes of pregnancy, because she was carrying the Savior of the world.
But that thought convicted me. What right do I have to complain about pregnancy difficulties, either? God created this child, and I am the only mother he has. I am not carrying him for my own benefit and pleasure, but because God has called me to be a selfless servant. Now, if only I can remember this when I am tempted to unburden my mind to my husband again about how much I’m enduring!
2) Jesus’ incredible humility.
My favorite Christmas song this year has been “Hark! the Herald Angels Sing,” especially the verse Veiled in flesh the Godhead see / Hail th’ incarnate Deity / Pleased as man with men to dwell / Jesus our Emmanuel. How can the human mind comprehend an all-powerful God who would become a human embryo inside the womb of a young girl? He submitted Himself to such lowliness and helplessness for us.
I am very thankful for the blessing of pregnancy and the privilege of bringing a new child into the world, even though it’s a journey fraught with discomfort and pain. I hope to continue reminding myself of what God is teaching me through this season.
Thank you for these reflections – especially from your unique and beautiful viewpoint as an expectant mother! I also have been spending more time relfecting in the meaning of the Incarnation this year – mostly because I was going through it for my Theology class a couple of weeks ago.
Also, Mark Driscoll is going through Luke – his sermon on Mary’s Song is really, really good. I’ve listened to it three times in the past couple weeks.
Blessings!
Thank you, Anna. Trust is broader and more beautiful than we sometimes think.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this Anna. Mary’s willingness to go through the ridicule of having a baby even though she was a virgin, and carrying and raising our Savior always amazes me too! I guess that’s why the Lord chose her.
I always thought it would be neat to be pregnant during Christmas time – especially later in the pregnancy like you! I’m sure this Christmas must be extra special for you.