DAY 25

Receiving and giving part 2.

Next would be Simeon, a righteous and devout man, who was waiting for the Messiah. When Jesus was presented to him, Simeon praised God saying

...my eyes have seen Your salvation, which You have prepared in the sight of all people, a light for revelation to the Gentiles and for the glory to Your people Israel.

Then Anna, the prophetess. She never left the temple but worhsipped night and day, fasting and praying. When she saw the baby Jesus, she gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who were looking forward to the redemption of Israel.

The Magi visit from Persia, by studying the stars they saw a sign. Possibly because of Daniel and his friends taken into captivity they knew that a King of Israel would be born. They make a long journey to worship Jesus, and give Him gifts of Gold, Frankincense, and Myrrh.

All of these set aside their lives, making room for the King of Kings in their hearts. They received the Lord and then told others.

One notable person did not receive the Lord, Herod. He acknowledged the threat to his worldly goods and power and ordered baby boys below the age of two to be killed. To not receive Jesus results in death.

Receive the Lord in your hearts, and when He has made His Presence known, then give to those around you the most precious gift. The reason for all seasons, the Life and Truth -- Jesus, the Son of God in the flesh.

This morning we had a blanket of clouds. A wintry morning. But I know the sun is there. You could say I have faith it is there.

And when troubles shadow our lives, we can know behind that darkness, that cloud of troubles, Jesus is still there, He knows us and promised He'd never leave us.

Rejoice that our Savior has come and is coming again.

Watch and pray.