Then there was Simeon, what did he contribute to Mary’s life? Simeon took Jesus into his arms and blessed God. Both Mary and Joseph were ‘speechless with surprise at his words’. Simeon went on to bless Joseph and Mary and then spoke specifically to Mary:
‘This Child is destined to cause the rising and falling of many … and to be a sign that will be spoken against, so that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your own soul too.’
Poor Mary! ‘And a sword will pierce your own soul too.’ A young girl who had already given and experienced so much. How many times was that sword to pierce her soul? How many times was she to think and feel ‘I can’t take any more – this hurts too much’ … this is a physical pain as this sword pierces my soul again and again and again.’ How much more could one woman take and there always seemed to be more.
I often think one of the kindest gifts God gave to us was that of not knowing the future, not knowing what trials and tribulations may beset us. I like to think Mary didn’t know the extent of how her soul was to be pierced, but she did know and had the absolute assurance of the constantly fulfilled promises of God.
I have no doubt that Mary’s prayers would have reflected Scripture and maybe ours should too.
‘O Sovereign Lord, You are God! Your Words are true, and You have promised good things to Your servant.’
2 Sam. 7:28
‘I will sing of Your loving kindness and justice; To You, O Lord, I will sing praises’.
Psalm 101:1
‘May I love You, Lord my God, and serve You with all my heart and all my soul.’
Deut. 11: 13
‘May I set my heart to honour Your Name’
Mal. 2:2
‘May I worship You, Lord my God, and serve You only’
Matt. 4: 10
‘May I take courage and not be afraid, for You, Lord Jesus are with me’
Mk 6: 50
Amen
Major Glad Ljungholm
Liverpool DHQ
Glad I have really enjoyed this series, thank you! Keep writing ... you ought to get these published.
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