From the Heart - by Meryl McKean

     As Christmas Day is almost upon us, I wonder how you feel about this time of year?  I sometimes feel at certain points in December that the preparations and expectations are like a wave, building up in force and heading towards me, I need to keep my balance to avoid being swept up in its pathway.

It is a challenge to keep my heart in the right place, and what is that place? Well for me it is a place of thankfulness, receptivity and celebration of the wonderful coming of Jesus. I pray each year for a fresh revelation from familiar words.

This year I have had three very different pieces of writing to complete during December – a preach, a piece of poetic prose and a post for this blog, I must be in sermon mode with all those ‘p’s! I decided to base them all around one piece of writing. Although it has been a challenge to keep the focus for each separate and clear in my mind, it has been an interesting exercise.
My subject has been that jewel of a ‘song’ we find in Luke’s gospel Chapter 1.
Known as the Magnificat – the words are Mary’s. It is a heart song. Incredible that in the midst of such world changing news, which would impact all areas of her life, there is no hint of fear or anxiety – once she has got over the initial shock of an angel appearing. The journey to see her cousin Elizabeth, provided Mary with time to think.

This song of Mary’s is preceded by the encounter between Mary and Elizabeth where the Holy Spirit falls on them all, Elizabeth’s words spark the unlocking and outpouring of Mary’s heart.
The song speaks of her deep gratitude to be chosen by God for this role. The sentences echo themes from Hannah’s prayer in 1 Samuel, as well as the Psalms, showing how her life has been steeped in the scriptures. She has been waiting for the coming Messiah, and she is ready. She has faith that the blessing is not only for her but for all. She is willing, despite the cost.

That’s what my desire is for my words this Christmas, that my words will come from my heart, anointed afresh by His spirit.  That as I share from the living Word of God in whatever format, I will see those words bringing fresh life and understanding. No matter how busy I am I know that for this to happen I need to carve out time to journey with Him.

Bio

Meryl McKean loves writing devotionals and poems and has had a few articles published over the years as well as using her writing in her work. She wants her writing to be a tool which helps others draw closer to God. She is married to Andy and lives in Bedford. Her day job as a member of her church staff leadership team is full of challenges and opportunities.