In those days Mary arose and went with haste into the hill country, to a town in Judah, and she entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth. And when Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, the baby leaped in her womb. And Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit, and she exclaimed with a loud cry, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb! And why is this granted to me that the mother of my Lord should come to me? For behold, when the sound of your greeting came to my ears, the baby in my womb leaped for joy. And blessed is she who believed that there would be a fulfilment of what was spoken to her from the Lord.”

Luke 1:39-45

 

Both Elizabeth and Mary were unlikely candidates for motherhood at the time, but God chose them to give birth to two unique and historically significant men: John the Baptist and Jesus Christ. Luke describes how the unborn John leapt with irrepressible joy in Elizabeth’s womb because he recognized Jesus as the Messiah. This incredible encounter foreshadowed his calling as a forerunner to prepare the way for the coming of Christ.

As you can see, the stories of Elizabeth and Mary are inextricably connected to the story of God’s salvation in Christ. Their stories were more than about them. They allow God to step into their stories and use them for His glory. It is because of their humility and faithfulness to God that we are the beneficiaries of their stories.

Similarly, all our stories are intertwined with the larger story of God's wonderful love, and He will use them to reveal His Son and Spirit to the world. You might believe that your story is not compelling or interesting enough for others to hear. Keep in mind that God is the author and finisher of your faith. If you let God tell your story through His love and redemptive grace, it can open hearts and bring healing to those in need.

Most people do not mind hearing about Jesus over the Christmas season. So, please take advantage of this opportunity to tell your story and share it with those around you.

Ask God to guide you to the people who need to learn about Him, and then let Him lead you to say what is right and appropriate. It is not about impressing people with your eloquence. Simply be genuine, honest, and sincere.