Eight Maids a-Milking: The Gift of A New Beginning

“Then Mary said, ‘Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word.’ And the angel departed from her.” – Luke 1:38 (NKJV)

On the eighth day of Christmas,
my true love gave to me
Eight maids a-milking,
Seven swans a-swimming,
Six geese a-laying,
Five golden rings,
Four calling birds,
Three French hens,
Two turtle doves,
And a partridge in a pear tree.

This gift represents a turning point, a moment of new beginnings. The number eight is often seen as symbolic of a fresh start — and indeed, Day 8 points us to the moment when the old covenant, with all its restrictions and laws, gave way to something new: the arrival of grace through Jesus Christ.

The beginning of this new chapter in human history started with a humble maidservant: Mary. In Luke 1:38, we read her powerful response to the angel’s message: "Let it be to me according to your word." This simple yet profound “yes” to God’s will set in motion the most pivotal event in history—the birth of Jesus, the Savior of the world.

Mary’s faith and obedience, despite the uncertainty and the challenges she would face, opened the door to God’s plan of redemption for all mankind. Through her "yes," the old covenant of law and ritual would eventually give way to the new covenant of grace, where salvation would come not by works, but through faith in Christ.

Her willingness to be used by God reminds us that our “yes” to God can also be the beginning of something new in our own lives. God’s plans for us are often beyond what we can imagine, but all He asks is that we submit to His will with faith. Just as Mary’s response changed the course of history, your obedience can bring about new beginnings in your life and the lives of those around you.

Over to You:

• What area of your life is God calling you to say “yes” to Him today?
• Is there a step of faith you’ve been hesitant to take? Remember, like Mary, your “yes” to God can unlock new seasons of blessing and transformation in your life.

Further Scripture References:

• 2 Corinthians 5:17; Hebrews 8:6-13; Matthew 1:18-25

Prayer:
Father, thank You for Mary’s example of faith and obedience. Help me to respond to Your call with the same trust and willingness. May I say "yes" to Your will, knowing that Your plans for me are good and lead to new beginnings. I surrender my life to You today, Lord. In Jesus’ name, Amen.