An older cousin. A king wanting his people to be counted. An innkeeper with no vacancies. Shepherds working nearby. A man whom the Holy Spirit told that he would see the Lord’s Christ before he died. A prophetess who thanked God for His redemption at Jesus’ purification in Jerusalem. Wise men from distant lands who followed God’s star and brought gifts to Jesus and His family.
The account of Jesus’ birth involves people from all walks of life and positions. They stepped in during times of need and offered confirmation and encouragement of what God had promised to do. In my limited thinking, I would have chosen Kings and leaders of the day to announce the arrival of the Son of God.
But God knows better!
He knew His son was sent to be a suffering servant. He chose an unmarried teenager who was likely plagued by rumors and gossip about her pregnancy to be Jesus’ mother. He ordained a census that required Mary and Joseph to leave the safety of their families and travel to the city where prophets foretold Jesus would be born. He filled the inn before their arrival so Jesus would be born in a shelter for animals. He sent angels to proclaim Jesus’ birth to the lowest of people in that culture: the shepherds.
God’s ways are not our ways. And He chooses to use unexpected people to fulfill His plans. We see this regularly in the people who volunteer for TMC Programs. Men and women who question what they have to offer to teen moms become significant figures in helping them move forward in their lives. Whether it’s a person who shares their knowledge of finances, supplies a meal, or provides childcare during LifeSkills Workshops, we won’t know the impact of their contribution this side of Heaven. But we know God uses people to fulfill His plans for our good and His glory!
Please pray for our Program Directors, the teen moms, and the TMC Program volunteers during this season. May the eyes and hearts of those who don’t yet know Jesus as Lord and Savior be opened as they hear and understand the significance of His coming to earth.
Merry Christmas!