My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me; and I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish, and no one shall snatch them out of my hand. John 10:27-28
Christmas is by far my favorite holiday. I love how everyone comes together to celebrate the birth of Christ. Whether it’s accomplished through Christmas parties, special worships and celebrations, or even singing Christmas carols in the car.
The music around Christmas is always comforting to me. When I was a little girl I loved gathering around my mom’s piano as she played. We would all sing the songs of Christmas together. One song always spoke to my heart as my family and friends shared in the special time of singing. Most Christmas songs are happy, joyful, and fun, but this song is slow, full of thoughtful questions, and troubling imagery. The words to the song, Mary Did You Know, still move my soul today.
I distinctly remember Christmas Eve worship when I was 12 years old. It was not the first time that I had heard Mary Did You Know, but it was the first time the words resonated with me. I remember having tears in my eyes thinking about the lyrics as they were being sung;
“Mary, did you know that your baby boy will save our sons and daughters? Did you know that your baby boy has come to make you new? This child that you’ve delivered, will soon deliver you”
Being a mom now, this song means so much more to me. It is hard to imagine how Mary felt knowing she was carrying the Son of God. Mary must have had tremendous faith when she heard God’s plan for her and for the whole world. She obeyed God with such grace and dignity. We all have a calling in life, but it’s sometimes hard to listen to what God is calling us to do. I am so thankful for the example of Mary as she listened to God and followed His lead in her life.
I am so glad that I grew still and listened to the great words of this song. God spoke to me through those lyrics when I was 12 and He continues to speak to me today. My hope for us all this Christmas season is that we will find time to grow still and listen. When God has our attention He will speak to us; sometimes through music, or scriptures, or in a quiet whisper that reveals His love and plans for us all.
Taylor Easttom, Director of Edmond Campus Children’s Ministry
