When Heat Comes

Blessed is the man
who trusts in the Lord,
whose trust is the Lord’s,
he is like a tree planted

by the waters that spreads

out its roots by the stream,

and does not fear when heat

comes, for its leaves remain

green, and is not anxious in the year of

drought, for it does not cease to bear fruit.
Jeremiah 17:7-8

Life wasn’t complicated for Mary, difficult, yes, but complicated, no. She had simple needs, was an obedient child and looked pragmatically into the future. She knew pretty much what lay ahead–hard work, marriage, children, a meager life. That is until Gabriel burst in on her. With a blast of light her life became very complicated, at times lonely and definitely uncertain. Nothing would ever be the same for Mary, the mother of the Son of God.

Oh that I could have a blast of light burst in on my morning prayers! But then again, it would be terrifying! While the initial thought creates a surge of excitement the rethink gives me pause. Each day as I cry out to God for his mercy and strength what would be my response if an angel did show up? I would be afraid.

But Mary wasn’t afraid! When the heat of questions surely began, the drought of rejection cracked the heart and loneliness settled in, her conversation with Gabriel kept repeating, "Mary, you have nothing to fear. God has a plan for you." Fear did not have its way. Instead, in the midst of the heat and drought Mary sings! "God took one good look at me, and look what happened–I’m the most fortunate woman on earth!"

Jesus, thank you! Mary has given me hope!
She experienced so much--
suffering the heat of rejection
and drought of loss.
Help me hear your words today!
"You have nothing to fear.
I have a plan for you."
AMEN.