Happy December! Christmas is on its way and we couldn’t think of a better way to ready our hearts together than by spending the whole month reading through the story of Jesus’ birth and finding some practical ways to love others. Together, we will work through an Advent reading plan provided by LCBC Church through YouVersion. Our prayer is that as you read about the greatest story ever told, your hearts will be readied for Christ’s arrival.
The child’s father and mother marveled at what was said about him. Then Simeon blessed them and said to Mary, his mother: “This child is destined to cause the falling and rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be spoken against, so that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your own soul too.”
There was also a prophet, Anna, the daughter of Penuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was very old; she had lived with her husband seven years after her marriage, and then was a widow until she was eighty-four. She never left the temple but worshiped night and day, fasting and praying. Coming up to them at that very moment, she gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who were looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem.
Both Simeon and Anna bless the baby and give prophecies that are both warm and unsettling at the same time.
Pray
Simeon talks about a sword piercing Mary’s soul. Not all blessings from God are easy. Pray that you would have strength and courage to ride out what God has in store for you this Christmas season. Christmas can be great, but it can also be difficult at times – pray that God would help you find joy through the difficult season.
Practice
Think through your friends and those you know – who lost a loved one around Christmas. Send them a note or a text telling them you are thinking about them and praying for them.
