But Mary treasured up all these things,
pondering them in her heart.
Luke 2:19

Our family has had a “birthday trivia” tradition through the years. Just after we blow out the candles on the cake, I toss out a half dozen questions that recap the highlights of the day each child was born. Along with questions about the time each child was born and the birth weight, I asked questions like: What was the name of the hospital where Amy was born? What was mom having for lunch when she went into labor with Katie? What was the name of the doctor who delivered both James and John?

We started the tradition because, over the years, we found that, if we didn’t rehearse the details of each child’s birth, it was easy to forget what had happened on what had been hugely significant days for our family.

Each year, the Advent season gives us a chance to remember and rehearse the details of the most significant birth event in all of human history. Like Mary, the mother of Jesus, we ought to spend time pondering this event in our hearts. We likely know the facts—the angels appearing to the shepherds, the journey of the wise men, the birth taking place in a stable. But we ought not let the details crowd out what is of first importance. When Jesus was born, God came to us. He came near.

It's no wonder that in the years that followed Jesus’ birth, Mary treasured and pondered all that had happened that night. As we conclude the advent season, let’s make sure we take time each day in the new year to treasure and ponder the incredible truth that God became flesh and dwelt among men.

Prayer: Lord, help me, like Mary, to ponder the details of the birth of your Son throughout the year. Give me a fresh sense of awe and wonder at the revelation of your grace and love for us.