Mary treasured and pondered that she would give birth to Jesus (Lk.2:19). Martha fretted and vexed about many things, including feeding Jesus (Lk.10:40). Jesus declares to each of us, “Only one thing really matters. Choose well.” (Lk.10:41)
Lord Jesus, choosing between having knots or worship in our hearts shouldn’t be that difficult, but often it is. If we’re not careful, aggravation can replace adoration in the blink of an eye or by the demands of the day. Thank you for reminding us, over and over, that being with you will always surpass doing for you.
We are to fix our gaze on you, fill our hearts with you—celebrate you as the pearl of great price that has been freely given to us (Matt.13:46). Adore you as the treasure hidden in the field that found us and now treasures us (Matt.13:44-45). Jesus, there is so much more of your beauty, goodness, and truth for us to discover, behold, and savor. Take us there. Show us. Dazzle us. Transform us.
From eternity through your incarnation and resurrection, you have captured our hearts and worship, Jesus. And now atop your throne of grace and your habitation in our hearts—you can be fully trusted, literally, with everything.
Like Mary, we want to treasure you more, Jesus. Like the shepherds, we want to be wherever you are. Like Simeon, we want to live and die as unto you (Lk.2:25-35). Like Anna—until our last breath, we want your presence to be our portion, your great grace to be our greatest gain (Lk.2:36-38).
In the waiting days of 2025, we choose you again as our first love, Jesus, because you chose and first loved us. Whether we are days, weeks, years, or decades from heaven, you are already our Home. Hallelujah, and So Very Amen.
