out of the ordinary | the disciples

God frequently works through the ordinary. Through them he shares something of his love for us and reveals elements of his redemption plan. In this devotional series we look at some of the ordinary things Jesus would have encountered as he journeyed towards the cross. We start with the disciples. Holy Spirit, will you reveal something extraordinary through each of them. Amen.

Mary responded, “I am the Lord’s servant. May everything you have said about me come true.” Luke 1:38, NLT

It is easy to forget Mary, Jesus' mother, was his first and most enduring disciple. Not only did she bring him into the world, but did so knowing who he really was. Whatever Jesus went through Mary was there with him - she even stood at the foot of the cross. When the angel Gabriel greeted her, he called her "favoured". I don't suppose she felt favoured in those agonising hours! Can you imagine the devastating pain and loss she experienced? The questions she must have had?

Mary models what it is to be completely surrendered to God’s plans and purposes. We see something of her immense trust in the Father in the Magnificat: "Oh, how my soul praises the Lord. How my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour! For he took notice of his lowly servant girl, and from now on all generations will call me blessed. For the Mighty One is holy, and he has done great things for me." Mary declares truth and it is established for her. Not in the way she imagines but, nevertheless, Mary knows she will see the fulfilment of God's promises to her. So will you.

Let's pray
Lord, your word tells me if I decree a thing it will be established for me so I decree it is well. I declare my trust in you. I look to you to with my questions, I know you are with me in my challenges. I say, with Mary, may everything you have said about me come true. In Jesus' name. Amen.