Jesus received a compliment and passed one along as well. His mother, Mary, was blessed by her obedience to God’s plan and purpose for her life. We, too, can live more blessed lives by following God’s plan and purpose for our lives. 

Jesus did not say, “Yes, my mom was blessed to have me!” Instead, he clarified that we can live a God-blessed life when we, like his mother Mary, hear and obey God. 

Turn back to Luke 1. Begin reading at verse 26 and continue through verse 38. God made it clear what he wanted her to do. She had legitimate questions in keeping with her character. When she understood her assignment as fully as anyone could, she responded in the manner each of us should. 

Mary responded, “I am the Lord’s servant. May everything you have said about me come true.” And then the angel left her.”
‭‭Luke‬ ‭1‬:‭38‬ ‭NLT‬‬

What Jesus said to the woman in the crowd is also his message to us. Hear what God is saying and do what he says. God’s ways are higher and better than our ways. His will and ways are better than our will and ways. What he wants for us is better than anything we want for ourselves. 

The more blessed life is living in step with Jesus. It is knowing him and experiencing him in every moment of our lives. It is abiding in him (John 15), drawing nourishment from him, bearing the fruit he produces out of our joyful obedience. 

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I will live a more blessed life by following God’s plan and purpose for my life.

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Our Father, what adventures lie ahead of us today? Show me the way I should go. Lead me. Redirect me as often as necessary. Fill my mind with your thoughts and my mouth with your words. Connect my hands to serve at the impulse of your love. Amen.