Luke 2:1-7

Luke 2:1-7 
English Standard Version (ESV)

  Having never been pregnant, I can't pretend to understand the experience Mary has.  I cannot imagine that riding a donkey while pregnant would be a pleasurable experience, especially when laden with uncertainty.  Mary has been told that she would give birth to the Messiah, and so she knows that she carries the hope of nations within her womb, but the Gospels are silent as to whether or not she has any details beyond that.  Her mind must be filled with questions as her body prepares to deliver the Christ child.
  On that first Christmas morning, she gives birth and lays her child in a manger.  The Messiah has come, God with us, and God experiences life as a helpless, dependent infant, looking to Mary for love and for nourishment.
  I don't know what God has planned for my life, and I don't know what God has planned for your life, but you have been called to bear the presence of Christ into the world.  There is great uncertainty in the specifics, but just as the angel came to Mary and announced that she was chosen by God to serve, know that you have been selected by God to serve in unique and particular ways that only you can serve.  You have been given a skillset and a personality that can bring glory to God and help expand the Kingdom of God, and while there are times that your calling will be intimidating and likely fearful, trust and believe that God is with you and that you are infinitely loved and treasured.  Do not be afraid -- God is with you, and so let the light shine, no matter how strong the darkness may be.