Raising Sons

"In the sixth month angel Gabriel was sent by God to a town in Galilee called Nazareth, to a virgin engaged to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin's name was Mary. And he came to her and said, 'Greetings, favored one! The Lord is with you.' But she was much perplexed by his words and pondered what sort of greeting this might be. The angel said to her, 'Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God'."

None of us know what's in store for our sons….none of us know what's in store.

"Brave, young Mary, do not be afraid for you have found favor with God."

Faithful Mary believes in the angel and gives herself up to God's word.

"My soul magnifies the Lord", sings Mary "and my spirit rejoices in GOD my savior for he has looked with favor on the lowliness of his servant."

Beautiful, brave, faithful, young Mary with Joseph right by her side, gives birth to a Son in a quiet manger with a glorious star shining outside.

Cradling her new born precious child of God, Mary knows in her heart that it's true.

None of us know what's in store for our sons….none of us know what's in store.

We love them beyond all measure of love, we cherish and guide and protect them and we know in our hearts from the moment they're born that their lives belong to the Lord.

Loving God, we pray for courage and faith like Mary's. Help us to raise not only our sons, but all of our loved ones to you. In your son's name. Amen.

Written by Leigh Downing