Today’s scripture: Luke 2:21 (ESV-text and audio) (KJV) (The Message) What might God be saying to me?
My thoughts (Tammy Mills):
Today’s verse is often passed over. It seems rather short and inconsequential. Reading it this advent season, I found it quite comforting.
There is something really appealing to my soul to know Jesus and his family went through the same ritual and routine as every other Jewish family at the time. Jesus didn’t get a “free pass”.
It reminds me that Jesus knows what living the human existence is like. He knew it from his birth until his death. He walked the same rocky road we all must. I like following someone who understands what it is like to walk in my shoes.
The second part of the verse reminds us of the importance of naming. All of our children are named after people we admire and who have brought us great strength. (Rumor has it that I am named after my dad’s old girlfriend.)
Whatever our name, it is up to us to really define the meaning. Jesus was given his name by the angel, but ultimately the power in the name was there because of how he lived. How we live will really define what our name means.
Thought for the day: What might my name mean based on how I am living?
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to start, consider the guidelines on the How to Pray page.