Scripture says that Jesus’ mother, Mary, treasured all these things and pondered them in her heart. Why did Mary respond in this way? The shepherds’ good news was excellent indeed, but it was not surprising or unexpected for Mary. She had received an angelic visit more than nine months earlier and, no doubt had spent countless hours contemplating the implications of that encounter. Already aware that her child had a world-altering destiny to fulfill, Mary had been waiting in hopeful expectation for this moment. Mary’s experience with the shepherds confirmed what she already knew about the significance of her Son. The words “pondered them in her heart” indicate that Mary did not fully understand everything she was experiencing and learning about her Son. She knew He had a divine calling, but how could she imagine what that would entail with absolute clarity? “All these things” incorporates not just the immediate encounter with the shepherds but all that had happened from the foretelling of John the Baptist’s birth until the birth of Jesus. As God’s presence filled His life in childhood, Jesus “grew and became strong; he was filled with wisdom, and the grace of God was on him.” One Passover, when Jesus was twelve, Jesus’ parents started their trip back home, inadvertently leaving Jesus behind. Upon discovering that Jesus was missing, Mary and Joseph returned to Jerusalem to find Him in the temple courts, fully involved in scriptural dialogue with the religious teachers. Everyone who witnessed the exchange was amazed by Jesus’ wisdom and understanding. But, once again, Mary’s reaction was different. Luke’s observation also hints at the depth of Mary’s character. She was quiet, peaceful, and spiritually receptive. Mary reflected deeply on the events of her life. Although she likely had the best insight regarding the shepherds’ experience, she kept quiet about her thoughts and feelings. Mary was only a teenager, but she had clothed herself with the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is so precious to God. Her faith ran deep and strong, guarding the secrets of God and gracefully awaiting their fulfillment. The divine mysteries intersecting Mary’s story were beyond natural comprehension, yet she preserved them as her most valued treasures.