Pastor Harris shared about Christmas Scene Investigation part three
Using Luke chapter one, his title was “There’s Something About Mary”
Like Herod and Zechariah, Mary was troubled when the angel spoke
Unlike those two leaders, Mary was just one of the ordinary townsfolk
When God speaks to us, often very challenged by His vision are we
As well as the gap from where we are and where He wants us to be
This can be compounded by what Josh called “the trouble with favour”
In other words, being great in God’s eyes may lead others to deplore
God’s favour is not always convenient, Pastor did then highlight
That Mary was a virgin made the pronouncement seem not so right
Add in an uncomfortable birthing place and to Egypt a forced escape
Thirty three years later Mary cried while on a cross Jesus did drape
But God’s favour was indeed on Mary and her son Jesus for eternity
Prophesied in the Bible, God's great favour was borne out in history
God’s favour invites us into impossible situations, Josh then said
For nothing is impossible for God’s word, in verse thirty seven we read
Interestingly very few biblical miracles in a religious setting took place
This was to show non-believers God’s immaculate power and grace
To live in God’s favour is to be with the Holy Spirit, per verse thirty five
As the Spirit prepares us for when doors open and opportunities arrive
Mary then responded by affirming that she was a servant of the Lord
Being a believer implies a level of servanthood not to be ignored
And we should remember that God works all things for eventual good
Often challenges we face prepare us for helping others in adulthood
From verse thirty nine, Mary visited Elizabeth who was finally with child
Elizabeth’s long wait helped Mary with her challenges to be reconciled
Verse forty five states that blessed are those who state God’s promise
Mary went on to rejoice and magnify the Lord, unlike doubting Thomas
Magnification does not change God’s power, Josh quickly pointed out
Only our perception of it, like a far off star through a telescope no doubt
Josh then again highlighted four key steps to help us on our life's trip
To pray, to meditate, to preach to others, and to engage in fellowship
Returning to the question of why we should want to walk in God’s favour
If we only serve in sacrifice, we will burn out as it will end up as a chore
The favour of God is actually His presence, per Second Corinthians four
God sent Jesus for our benefit, so His grace can reach more and more
In conclusion, Josh quoted that our troubles are light and momentary
Whereas God’s eternal glory outweighs them and is our goal primary
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