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A Closer Walk

Trust His Love

By Kerry Clarensau

I love to read the Christmas story found in the Gospel of Luke. As a woman, have you ever tried to put yourself in Mary’s place? Have you ever wondered what it must have been like for an angel to appear and make such an announcement? After considering Mary’s response, I’ve come to the conclusion that it is a response founded in absolute trust! When Gabriel explained God’s plan for her to carry His Son, Mary simply said, “Yes, may it be to me as you have said.”

In the context of our culture we may not fully understand what saying “yes” meant for this young woman. By saying yes, she willingly laid aside everything—her plans, her reputation, her security and her future. And in her culture she was even risking her life.

It is interesting that a song of praise (Luke 1:46-55) was Mary’s response to this life-altering news. Her words rang from a heart that knew and trusted God’s love. Even though she didn’t understand all that was happening, she knew God was mindful of her and He would take care of every circumstance. If she questioned God’s love, her response might have been—“Lord, what are you thinking? I don’t think I can do this. You’ve asked way too much of me…”

After considering Mary’s response, I’ve come to believe that my response to difficult or challenging circumstances reveals my trust in God. When I question His goodness and His ability to work all things for my good, I am revealing a lack of trust. When my response is fear or an overwhelming desire for personal comfort, I am questioning His love.

Mary said yes to God. She trusted Him completely and she continued to walk submissively—even to the foot of the cross and into the Upper Room. Joanna Weaver in Having a Mary Spirit says, “After the birth of the church on the Day of Pentecost, the mother of Jesus disappeared in biblical anonymity. And perhaps that is best…I believe Mary would want us to focus on Jesus. For He is the true treasure. Christ is the One we should ponder, worship and adore” (page 106).

He is too good to be unkind, so when life’s circumstances seem to be overwhelming and you don’t understand what is going on—trust His love. The more we “ponder, worship and adore” Him, the more we grow to understand His unconditional love. His love is more than enough to trust!

God has opened many doors for KERRY CLARENSAU, which have prepared her for her current position as Leadership Development Coordinator for the national Women’s Ministries Department. Kerry has served the Kansas District in different ministry roles and as national Missionettes Coordinator. Under her leadership the current Mpact girls clubs (formerly Missionettes) program was developed in 1998. She has also served as women’s pastor at Maranatha Worship Center in Wichita, Kansas, where her husband serves as senior pastor. She is a Bible teacher, writer, wife, mother and much more. Her role as pastor’s wife is instrumental in developing effective leadership resources for the local church.