“While he was saying this, a woman in the crowd raised her voice and said to him, ‘Blessed is the womb that bore you and the breasts that nursed you!’ But he said, ‘Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it!’” Luke 11:27-28
The woman in the crowd had such admiration and love for Jesus. She couldn’t imagine a greater blessing than being the woman who carried and raised the Son of God. Jesus shifts the perspective, however. He says Mary is blessed not because she carried and birthed him, but because Mary heard God’s word and obeyed it.
In the same way, we are blessed, not because we fulfill the great calling, but rather when we obey the voice of God. God looks at our heart and sees the willing servant. Is this where I am positioned today? Am I listening for God’s specific word for me and responding as Mary did?
“I am the Lord’s servant, May it be to me as you have said.” (Luke 1:38, NIV)
The blessing comes as we walk closely with Him, moving on His shouts and His whispers, willing to follow and trust the Divine.
Thank You, Father, that You value my willing heart and my obedience. Speak to me today, Lord. Your servant is listening. Amen.
by Idelette McVicker
Used by Permission
FURTHER READING
• The Walk of Obedience – by Mary Pinckney
• The Thrill of Obedience – by Charles Stanley
• God Requires Risky Obedience – by Jon Walker