Good morning and congratulations! If you began this journey back on January 1, you have now read the totality of the gospels - Matthew, Mark, Luke, & John - in 330 days, well less than a calendar year.
These next six days will feature a potpourri of daily readings before we begin a new cycle on Sunday, December 2. For many Christians, the season of Advent begins on Sunday. The plan is not completely set yet and your feedback is actually requested to help shape a bit what Jesus Daily will look like in the weeks and months to come.
As for today and the next few days, we’ll have a few “random” readings from the gospels. Today’s is…
Luke 2:25-35
A man named Simeon was in Jerusalem. He was righteous and devout. He eagerly anticipated the restoration of Israel, and the Holy Spirit rested on him. The Holy Spirit revealed to him that he wouldn’t die before he had seen the Lord’s Christ. Led by the Spirit, he went into the temple area. Meanwhile, Jesus’ parents brought the child to the temple so that they could do what was customary under the Law. Simeon took Jesus in his arms and praised God. He said,
“Now, master, let your servant go in peace according to your word,
because my eyes have seen your salvation.
You prepared this salvation in the presence of all peoples.
It’s a light for revelation to the Gentiles
and a glory for your people Israel.”
His father and mother were amazed by what was said about him. Simeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother, “This boy is assigned to be the cause of the falling and rising of many in Israel and to be a sign that generates opposition so that the inner thoughts of many will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your innermost being too.”
Prayer
God,
It’s Monday. I don’t suppose which day of the week it is really matters to you except that every seventh day is sabbath. But you know how much we humans benefit from organization and naming things and all.
In fact, Monday is the beginning of the work week, a time to remember agendas, appointments, and schedules. Help me with these things, God, but keep me from being a slave to them.
Give me the freedom of Christ. Help me to smile with Jesus, to laugh with him, to be real with him, and to eat/rest/play with his presence by your spirit. Even if for momentary seconds at a time, give me such things to keep me from thinking I’m more than I am. At the same time, help me to remember your love for me and the whole world.
By your spirit & in Christ,
Amen.