Daily Readings - Sat Dec 30 2023

¹²I am writing to you, little children, because your sins are forgiven for his name's sake.¹³I am writing to you, fathers, because you know him who is from the beginning. I am writing to you, young men, because you have overcome the evil one. I write to you, children, because you know the Father.¹⁴I write to you, fathers, because you know him who is from the beginning. I write to you, young men, because you are strong, and the word of God abides in you, and you have overcome the evil one.¹⁵Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him.¹⁶For all that is in the world--the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride in possessions--is not from the Father but is from the world.¹⁷And the world is passing away along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God abides forever.

Luke

Chapter 2

³⁶And there was a prophetess, Anna, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was advanced in years, having lived with her husband seven years from when she was a virgin,³⁷and then as a widow until she was eighty-four. She did not depart from the temple, worshiping with fasting and prayer night and day.³⁸And coming up at that very hour she began to give thanks to God and to speak of him to all who were waiting for the redemption of Jerusalem.³⁹And when they had performed everything according to the Law of the Lord, they returned into Galilee, to their own town of Nazareth.⁴⁰And the child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom. And the favor of God was upon 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.