The past 3 Wednesday’s of my life have been consumed with study in the book of Luke, from the Holy Bible. Chapter 2 is the most popular chapter of this book and happens to be visited millions of times during December! As I studied, I hoped for a new appreciation… a new perspective… an old story to be relived.
As I looked at the account of the physician, I began to see the love of my savior. “Nuggets of truth” were rolling out of this simple passage (vv1-20) as I studied. But I wanted to post at least this one…
[Luke 2:18-19, ESV] “And all who heard it wondered at what the shepherds told them. But Mary treasured up all these things, pondering them in her heart.”
For those who heard the account of the shepherds and their experience with the thousands of angels in the field, it was a big deal. It was the talk of the time and the talk of the town! It was the breaking news. Everyone wanted to know the story and all who heard it wondered. They were curious!
Wondering is simple. It doesn’t take a long time to do nor does it require much thinking! We all wonder each day… about thousands of things. But check out verse 19. Mary wasn’t wondering. She actually was no where near it!
Pondering is not simple. Is does time a “long” time and it requires more thinking [than we would normally prefer to offer it]. Pondering is meditative and thorough. We rarely do this… I mean… who has time?
I pray that God will move this Christmas season. I challenged the students to ponder on the miracle of Christmas and how it changed the world. Mediate on the difference between wondering and pondering. Experience peace and ponder on what God has given us.
Which will you do?
