Readings for the Day:
II Samuel 7:1-11, 16: Instead of David building a house (temple) for God, God promises to establish David’s house (dynasty) forever. Centuries later, after the Babylonian exile, no king sat on the throne. Even then, however, the people of Israel remembered this promise and continued to hope for a king, the messiah, God’s anointed.
Romans 16:25-27: Paul closes his letter to the Romans by praising God because, in the proclamation of the gospel of Jesus Christ, God has revealed the promised, divine plan of salvation for all humanity. Paul proclaims this gospel of Christ in order to bring about the obedience of faith among all nations.
Luke 1:26-38: In this annunciation, Luke makes clear that God comes with good news for ordinary people from little known places. This king will not be born to royalty in a palace, but to common folk in a s stall. Here Luke highlights the role of the Spirit, a special emphasis in this gospel.
‘From Sunday & Seasons, copyright 2023 Augsburg Fortress’
Questions To Ponder:
1— What do you think of God’s promise to build a dynasty for David rather than David’s request to build a house for God? (II Samuel 7:1-11, 16)
2—How do you understand Mary’s song in our world today? (Luke 1:46-55)
3—What are significant Christmas traditions for you?
4—How do these texts speak to you today?
Prayer: Stir up your power, Lord Christ, and come. With your abundant grace and might, free us from the sin that would obstruct your mercy, that willingly we may bear your redeeming love to all the world. Amen.