Readings for the Day:
Isaiah 61:10-62:3: To the people who returned to Jerusalem after the exile, the prophet proclaims that God’s salvation will fully come to pass. Jerusalem will become a shining light to the nations and righteousness and praise will spring up as surely as the earth puts forth vegetation.
Galatians 4:4-7: Paul seeks to show the Galatians that the purpose of Christ’s birth was to liberate us from the law’s condemnation so that we would be fully adopted into God’s family as beloved children.
Luke 2:22-40: Luke’s narrative continues with stories that emphasize Jesus’ connection to Judaism. His family is devout in its observance of the law, and Jesus himself is recognized as one who will bring glory to Israel.
‘From Sunday & Seasons, copyright 2023 Augsburg Fortress’
Questions To Ponder:
1— How do you praise God in your life? (Psalm 148)
2—What does it mean to you to be a child of God? (Galatians 4:4-7)
3—How do you understand the Jewishness of Jesus? (Luke 2:22-40)
4—How do these texts speak to you today?
Prayer: Almighty God, you wonderfully created the dignity of human nature and yet more wonderfully restored it. In your mercy, let us share the divine life of the one who came to share our humanity. Amen.