“Now, if Jesus Christ holds all [the universe] together with just a word of his power (Hebrews 1:3) — is he the kind of person you ask into your life to be your assistant? That simple logic shattered my resistance to doing what Mary did. Yes, if he really is like that, how can I trust him as a consultant rather than as Supreme Lord?”- Timothy Keller, citing a conference speaker
“[The Son] is the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature, and he upholds the universe by the word of his power.”- Hebrews 1:3 (ESV)
Timothy Keller concludes Chapter 5 of Hidden Christmas as he describes what becoming a Christian is not. Instead, one must basically do the same thing as Mary – and Abraham before her (see Luke 1:55). Therefore, becoming a Christian is not:
- like signing up for a gym
- a ‘living-well’ program designed to help you flourish and reach your potential
- another vendor supplying spiritual services you engage as long as it meets your needs – at a reasonable cost
- a negotiation but a surrender
In conclusion, Pastor Keller talks about a penultimate and an ultimate reason we can follow Mary down this path. The penultimate reason centers on our ability to recognize that if we commit ourselves to God, we can trust His commitment to us.
So, when disappointments and difficulties drive Christians more into God’s arms, they find themselves becoming more grounded, radiant, happy, and wise. Therefore, surrender to God through the power of the Holy Spirit. Then, never underestimate what Jesus can do in and through you. Because when we give ourselves wholly to Him, He’ll do great things. Even in our troubles.
Finally, Pastor Keller stresses, Mary made her surrender before knowing what Jesus was going to do for her. Thus, Mary points the way for us. We can do it too.
Today’s question: Do you see Jesus as a consultant or your Supreme Lord? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: “Shepherds – merely sentimental?”
