Daily Readings - Sat Dec 30 2023

¹²I am writing to you, little sons, because your sins are forgiven for the sake of his name¹³I am writing to you, fathers, because you have known him who is from the beginning. I am writing to you, adolescents, because you have overcome the evil one¹⁴I am writing to you, little children, because you have known the Father. I am writing to you, young men, because you are strong, and the Word of God abides in you, and you have overcome the evil one¹⁵Do not choose to love the world, nor the things that are in the world. If anyone loves the world, the charity of the Father is not in him¹⁶For all that is in the world is the desire of the flesh, and the desire of the eyes, and the arrogance of a life which is not of the Father, but is of the world¹⁷And the world is passing away, with its desire. But whoever does the will of God abides unto eternity

Luke

Chapter 2

³⁶And there was a prophetess, Anna, a daughter of Phanuel, from the tribe of Asher. She was very advanced in years, and she had lived with her husband for seven years from her virginity³⁷And then she was a widow, even to her eighty-fourth year. And without departing from the temple, she was a servant to fasting and prayer, night and day³⁸And entering at the same hour, she confessed to the Lord. And she spoke about him to all who were awaiting the redemption of Israel³⁹And after they had performed all things according to the law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their city, Nazareth⁴⁰Now the child grew, and he was strengthened with the fullness of wisdom. And the grace of God was in him

Sermon

In today's readings, we encounter two powerful messages that guide us in our spiritual journey. The first reading from 1 John addresses believers of different ages and stages, emphasizing forgiveness, knowledge of God, and overcoming evil. John urges us to avoid the allure of the world, with its fleeting desires, and instead focus on eternal life through God's will. The Gospel from Luke introduces us to Anna, a devout prophetess whose life is marked by prayer, fasting, and unwavering dedication to God. Her recognition of Jesus as the redeemer exemplifies a life lived in faith and anticipation of God's promises. The context of 1 John suggests a community navigating challenges and potential divisions, with John encouraging steadfast faith and moral living. Luke's narrative, part of the infancy story, highlights the Holy Family's obedience and introduces Anna as a model of piety and patience. Both readings underscore the importance of a deep, personal relationship with God and the transformative power of faith. Together, these readings remind us to cultivate spiritual strength and avoid worldly distractions. Anna's example teaches us about the value of prayer and dedication, urging us to remain attentive to God's presence in our lives. As we navigate our own journeys, may we embrace the eternal truths of our faith, trusting in God's plan and living with hearts focused on what truly endures.