Thursday, February 15, 2018

Lenten Readings: Luke 2

Lenten Readings: The two-year Bible reading plan puts the Gospel accounts of Luke and John right between Ash Wednesday and Easter. Whether you're doing the reading plan or not, you can follow along on the blog and read daily meditations based on the accounts of Jesus, whose life and death we remember and cherish during this season of Lent. Check back every day starting on February 14 and until Easter Saturday.

READ: Luke 2:34-35 ESV 
And Simeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother, “Behold, this child is appointed for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign that is opposed (and a sword will pierce through your own soul also), so that thoughts from many hearts may be revealed."

MEDITATE on "thoughts from many hearts may be revealed." What thoughts? Why is this a good thing?

REFLECT
Jesus' birth was miraculous, and he was greeted with joy (parents, shepherds) and fanfare (angel chorus). Simeon rejoiced to meet Jesus at the temple, as did Anna. Babies bring joy to people. But we know how Jesus' story proceeded, and how it led to the cross. None of these people knew that in Luke 2. They hoped with great anticipation at what God would do. God exceeded their expectations, but not in the way they thought. There was going to be suffering, exposure of sin, and redemption.

God exceeds our expectations, but His ways are higher than our ways and He may not do things the way we think He will. How is that true in your relationship with Jesus? Remember the joy that meeting Jesus brings. And then that joy deepens as you journey through the highs and lows of grace, repentance, redemption, and sanctification. And all the while, God is still unfolding His plan of salvation, showing us His love. Follow Jesus there.

PRAY
Thank God for Jesus and for how God gave His Son to take away our sins. Pray for faith in God's work in your life. Pray for God to work in the lives of those around you today.


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