Scripture: Simeon said to Mary, ‘This child is destined for the falling and rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be opposed so that the inner thoughts of many will be revealed – and a sword will pierce your own soul too.’ (Luke 2.34-35) Reflection:Mary, the mother of Jesus, is of course at the very heart of the Christmas story. Giving birth (away from home) was as risky a business as for any young mother, and the stakes had been raised even higher by the expectations that this was to be a child especially gifted by God. When she took her 8 day-old baby into the Temple, she was confronted by the aged Simeon, who’d come ‘led by the Spirit’. Seeing the baby, he saw a miracle – a baby who would challenge the status quo and expose our ‘inner thoughts’. Jesus was indeed a very special gift, but living out his message of God’s love was very costly for him, and for his mother. Thanks be to God. David Harmsworth
Scripture: 3This is the one of whom the prophet Isaiah spoke when he said, ‘The voice of one crying out in the wilderness: “Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.” ’ 8Bear fruit worthy of repentance. (Matthew 3:3&8)Reflection:Here is John the Baptist, that “wild” prophet, doing his (Advent) preparation work for God! Doing his bit in proclaiming the good news.This week we have heard that the last Census says that for the first time less than 50% of people identify as being Christian in this country. On the one hand, that news can make believers quite despondent. On the other hand, it presents an opportunity and a challenge for everyone who professes to believe. We have an opportunity this Advent and Christmas to show people that faith - the Christian faith – and that God makes a difference in our lives. And that God can make a difference in everyone’s life.How? Firstly, hear the words of John the Baptist speaking to you, “Bear fruit worthy of repentance.” (That means putting your faith into action!)Secondly, pray…. Speak. Ask. Listen. Hear the answer….and then Act as God calls you to! And enjoy Advent; this time of preparation. Show others you enjoy being a Christian. That can work wonders!!!Revd David
