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Citizenship in the Kingdom of God
I have been involved in justice ministry since 1958. During that time, I have known dozens Read More
Beth A. Richardson | Read Luke 1:39-45
O come, Emmanuel, and let our spirits leap for joy at your promised coming.
I love this story of Mary and Elizabeth, cousins descended from King David, both pregnant in miraculous ways with miraculous timing.
Elizabeth is the wife of Zechariah, who has his own story in Luke 1:5-25. You’ll...
Emmanuel, open our eyes and hearts to watch for the unexpected during these last days of Advent. May our spirits leap for joy at the recognition of your presence in our lives, in this world. Amen.
As Christians we understand that our faith is rooted in the ongoing story of God’s faithfulness to God’s people. Micah celebrates this story, prophesying that the true king of Israel will one day come from the small village of Bethlehem, Jesus’ birthplace. Luke features women prominently throughout his Gospel. The two readings from Luke this week highlight the prophetic insights of Elizabeth and Mary. Mary visits Elizabeth, who is pregnant with John, God’s messenger. After Elizabeth identifies Mary as the mother of the Lord, Mary breaks into song, understanding that her story is tied to the fulfillment of God’s promises going back to Abraham. Little does she know that her son will one day offer his body as a sacrifice for all, as Hebrews tells us.
Read Micah 5:2-5a. What small beginnings have yielded great results in your life?
Read Psalm 80:1-7. What is your song of praise to God today? How will you share it?
Read Hebrews 10:5-10. How does your body help you to experience God?
Read Luke 1:39-55. How has God spoken to you through a joyous meeting with another person?
Respond by posting a prayer.
