So it was, when the angels had gone away from them into heaven, that the shepherds said to one another, “Let us now go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has come to pass, which the Lord has made known to us.” And they came with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the Babe lying in a manger. Now when they had seen Him, they made widely known the saying which was told them concerning this Child. And all those who heard it marveled at those things which were told them by the shepherds. But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart. Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told them.

And when eight days were completed for the circumcision of the Child, His name was called Jesus, the name given by the angel before He was conceived in the womb.

—From Luke 2:15–21 (NKJV)

But while he thought about these things, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take to you Mary your wife, for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit. And she will bring forth a Son, and you shall call His name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins.”

—From Matthew 1:20–21 (NKJV)

Reflection

Luke in his Gospel tells us that Mary stored up or treasured these things in her heart. It’s such a simple statement, one that implies first-hand knowledge rather than something an author, not a sentimental mother, would likely think to invent. We see Mary pondering these things, returning to them time and time again, preserving them. The Greek for treasure used here is different than a simple “keep carefully.” This usage implies safety, protection. Mary’s child would grow, and would likely not seem that much different than any other child by outward appearances. And yet in her heart this treasure would be protected. Mary would keep these glimmers of truth aglow, living like a Temple flame, in her heart. How can we treasure the reality of Christ today?

Celebrate Together

Gather the family for today’s Celebration in our book, The Joy of Advent. Wonder at the story of salvation present in Mary’s very name, explore the Jesse Tree symbol for her heart of treasure, discover the history behind today’s carol, and enjoy a family conversation (or private journaling) about what is truly valuable and worth treasuring. (Today is the Solemnity of Mary, the Theotokos! Find additional content after the day’s celebration!)

Inspiration

Music

Enjoy the classic carol, The Holly and the Ivy. [Play Video]

Happy New Year! Let’s all enjoy some JOY as we welcome in a new year. [Play Video]

Prayer

Almighty God, who madest Thy blessed Son to be circumcised, and obedient to the law for man; Grant us the true circumcision of the Spirit; that, our hearts and all our members being mortified from all worldly and carnal lusts, we may in all things obey Thy blessed will; through the Same Thy Son Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

(From Household Prayer, From Ancient and Authorized Sources, P. G. Medd, 1864)

Solemnity of Mary, Theotokos

Theotokos translates from the Greek as "God-bearer” or “Mother of God.” This title emerged from the First Council of Ephesus in 431 as a declaration of Jesus' complete and full divinity. Celebrate Mary’s entirely unique blessing with this stunning and ancient hymn, c. 1420, and find more ways to celebrate at our website. [Play Video]

Resources

• For a Celtic instrumental version of today’s carol, watch here.

• Enjoy a printable coloring page of Mary with Jesus.

• Would you like to make Jesse Tree ornaments to accompany your readings? Find tutorials and ideas from simple to advanced at our Jesse Tree Ornaments Pinterest board.

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