And all who heard it wondered at what the shepherds told them. But Mary treasured up all these things, pondering them in her heart. (Luke 2:18, 19 ESV)
Reactions
Christmas at my house while growing up was an exercise in emotional reactions. My father, whenever he gave or received a gift, presented a somber, thoughtful, serious face. No matter how amazing or how mundane the gift was. He was quiet on the outside, regardless of his internal reaction.
My mother, whenever she gave or received a gift, presented a merry-go-round of facial extravagance. She almost glowed. She almost giggled. She presented an exuberant face. No matter how amazing or how mundane the gift was. She was delightfully outlandish on the outside, regardless of her internal reaction.
Which is the better reaction on Christmas morning? It is far too easy to pick sides.
But Luke shows us two different, albeit two appropriate reactions to the arrival of the Messiah.
The shepherds burst at the seems of their robes with excitement, and it caused wonder! An understated concept if there ever was one. “WOW,” they shouted, and all who heard it WOWED right back.
Mary was thoughtful, introspective, amazed, shocked, and in awe. She pondered. She thought. She felt.
When you become aware of what God is doing, you get to be a shepherd or Mary. Both are grand reactions to the Messiah!