Daily Readings - Sat Dec 30 2023

¹²I write to you, dear children, because your sins have been forgiven on account of his name.¹³I write to you, fathers, because you have known him who is from the beginning. I write to you, young men, because you have overcome the evil one. I write to you, dear children, because you have known the Father.¹⁴I write to you, fathers, because you have known him who is from the beginning. I write to you, young men, because you are strong, and the word of God lives in you, and you have overcome the evil one.¹⁵Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him.¹⁶For everything in the world--the cravings of sinful man, the lust of his eyes and the boasting of what he has and does--comes not from the Father but from the world.¹⁷The world and its desires pass away, but the man who does the will of God lives forever.

Luke

Chapter 2

³⁶There was also a prophetess, Anna, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was very old; she had lived with her husband seven years after her marriage,³⁷and then was a widow until she was eighty-four. She never left the temple but worshiped night and day, fasting and praying.³⁸Coming 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.³⁹When Joseph and Mary had done everything required by the Law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee to their own town of Nazareth.⁴⁰And the child grew and became strong; he was filled with wisdom, and the grace 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.