For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Hebrews 4:12.

And not only this, but we also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope; and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us. Romans 5:3-5.

Everyone who asks receives. Luke 11:10.

And continuing our 351 Old Testament prophecies, promises of God, fulfilled in Jesus Christ, we come to number 55: To reign on David’s throne forever. 1 Chronicles 17:12-13: He shall build for Me a house, and I will establish his throne forever. I will be his father and he shall be My son; and I will not take My lovingkindness away from him, as I took it from him who was before you. And, Luke 1:32-33: He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High; and the LORD God will give Him the throne of His father David; and He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and His kingdom will have no end.

The Scripture verse just above was the angel Gabriel speaking to Mary who was to bear Jesus the Son. She believed Gabriel. Her only question was how since she was a virgin. And so began a relationship with her and with all of us. Mary went from being mother to being daughter of Jesus. Can we sit with that and wonder what that must have been like for both of them? A bond that will never be broken. And the amazing thing is that as we ourselves ponder and wonder at such an amazing time and blessing for humanity, our hearts open to true wonder and joy that can never be taken away.

The image above is from the painting by the artist Morgan Weistling titled “Kissing the Face of God”. I had gotten a Christmas card with this image from an artist friend and loved it so much I had it put into a plastic stand alone frame and it sits right above my computer as I type this. Weistling masterfully captured so beautifully the tender love Mary had for her firstborn Son of God.

Our strength in hope is the tender love Creator God – Father, Son, Spirit, has for us. Mary needed the words Gabriel greeted her with: Greetings, favored one! The LORD is with you. Do not be afraid, Mary; for you have found favor with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall name Him Jesus. Luke 1:28-31. Not by our might or strength. By the love of God is His will accomplished for us. The angel answered and said to her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; and for that reason the holy Child shall be called the Son of God…For nothing will be impossible with God.” Luke 1:35, 37.

The beauty of creation God created is all around us and never do we appreciate it so fully as when we ask God to help us see – to help us know Him.