Christmas

This devotional is written by Matt Coombs. Matt is one of the leaders at St Mary's and is married to Pip.

33 The child's father and mother marveled at what was said about him. 34 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, 35 so that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your own soul too."

36 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, 37 and then was a widow until she was eighty-four. She never left the temple but worshiped night and day, fasting and praying. 38 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.

39 When Joseph and Mary had done everything required by the Law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee to their own town of Nazareth. 40 And the child grew and became strong; he was filled with wisdom, and the grace of God was on him.

Mary knew her child was going to be special because the angel Gabriel had visited her, and spoke these words: He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever; his kingdom will never end (Luke 1:32-33.

It's an amazing source of encouragement when God speaks to us. It gives us a sense of assurance. It reminds us that God is real and active in our lives. It gives us hope during difficult times.

In this passage Mary and Joseph are encouraged by two strangers who confirmed what God had already said to them.

As we come to the end of this year; are there promises from God that you still await answers for? Are there things that God has said that have not yet come to be?

Pray that God would bring others to remind and encourage you of this.

As we come into this new year; take some time to ask God to speak to you about what he is calling you to do, and ask that others would confirm this calling.