Christmas

Check out all the previous Rest readings here.

Christmas Reading Plan | Week 4 Day 1

Prayer

As you come to spend time with Jesus, calm your mind and body until you feel fully present. Ask Him to teach you more about Himself today.

Bible Reading: Luke 2:33-35

Read these verses three times slowly.

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

Reflection & Questions

Last week, we finished our readings with Simeon meeting Mary, Joseph and 8-day old Jesus. On laying his eyes on Jesus, Simeon said, “my eyes have seen your salvation.” Mary and Joseph “marveled” at what Simeon said, but Simeon’s message wasn’t all good news.

Jesus was going to “cause the falling and rising of many in Israel.” He would be a divisive force. As much as He would bring salvation, not all would receive him. He will “be spoken against” revealing those who truly love God and those who don’t.

Unfortunately, for Mary, this also means “a sword will pierce” her soul, too. We know where Jesus’ story leads – to the cross. That is why He has come. There is rejoicing and marveling in his birth; his birth though is but the beginning of why He came.

The path to salvation involves suffering. There was no way for Jesus to save us except through the cross. And for us, Jesus says, we will also have to carry our own crosses, too. In our path to heaven we will face suffering. Swords will pierce our souls. We shouldn’t be surprised at the suffering we face, but remember that Jesus, Mary and countless millions of believers have all walked the path of suffering on the way to glory.

1. How do these verses give you courage in the midst of your suffering?
2. How has God used suffering in your life?

Prayer

Pray in response to today’s reading.

Worship Song

You might use this song today to worship Jesus today:

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Questions?