THE SURRENDERED HEART

*This is the first devotional in a series titled Matters of the Heart, created by the ministry Women of Hope from Trans World Radio.

“’I am the Lord’s servant,’ Mary answered. ‘May your word to me be fulfilled.’ Then the angel left her.” - Luke 1:38

Several years ago, friends of ours felt God calling them back to their home country. This was a major life change, impacting their entire family. They spent considerable time in prayer, seeking the best way to share this decision with their children.

 

The news did not sit well with their youngest son. He was sad about leaving behind everything he knew. A few days later, they revisited the topic, and he responded with a tone of resignation, "I've accepted my fate!" When our friends shared this with us, we found it endearing, and it still brings a smile to our faces. It wasn't what he wanted, but he recognized that surrender was, given the circumstances, his best option.

 

His words were profound. He was expressing his peace with this new chapter and his willingness to follow his parents. Shortly after the move, he had fully adjusted and was thriving, enjoying wonderful new experiences. Imagine what he would have missed had he resisted his parents' decision!

 

Surrendering isn't always easy, especially when it’s not what we had in mind. When it comes to surrendering to the Lord’s will, Mary's example is particularly inspiring. The biblical account shows her natural human reaction: she was initially frightened by the angel Gabriel's visit, who reassured her, telling her not to fear.

 

He then revealed the incredible news that she would conceive and bear the Son of the Most High. Mary's reply was simple yet powerful: "’I am the Lord’s servant,’ Mary answered. ‘May your word to me be fulfilled.’ Then the angel left her" (Luke 1:38).

 

Mary's response is a source of inspiration, an attitude we can mimic in our daily lives. May the Lord grant us the serenity and courage to surrender to him and have his plans to unfold in us, so that his name may be glorified.

 

Reflection Questions:

 

1.    Do you find it challenging to surrender? What makes it so difficult?

2.    Think of a time when you surrendered and the outcome was positive, even if unexpected. What did you learn from that experience?

3.    What small step could you take today to practice surrendering where you're currently feeling resistant?

Guest contributor: Susie Peck.
*Published with permission from the Women of Hope ministry. For more information, please visit their website   https://www.twrwomenofhope.org/