Luke 2:21-40

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I actually spoke on this passage the other week at church so it is kinda hard to look at it again so soon. So just a few condensed thoughts from the sermon really (if you want to see the full notes (that won't make much sense...) let me know). First, everyone in the passage was doing what God wanted them to do. Mary & Joseph were acting according to the law; Simeon and Anna were prompted by the Holy Spirit and followed that prompt. Second, Simeon ACCEPTED Jesus as he was. He didn't have any doubts or questions for God (like I was expecting a warrior not a baby...) - I think we'd probably like to change a few things about Jesus if we could, make him a bit more comfy to live with but Simeon just accepted, accepted God's plan.

Luke 2:1-20

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v10 But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid, for see - I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people"

These words are so familiar it is easy to miss what they actually say - the news is good, it is full of joy, great joy, and it is for all the people.
During the beginning chapters of Luke, we get a few indications (particularly in Simeon's prophecy which comes next) that this isn't just for the Jews but for everyone, as the angel says here. I think we can get a bit selfish with the gospel sometimes, wanting it to be what we want, not what it really is, wanting to cling on to it, not share it with EVERYONE.

Luke 1:57-80

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vv63-66: He (Zechariah) asked for a writing tablet and wrote "His name is John." And all of them were amazed..All who heard them pondered them and said, "What then will this child become?" For, indeed, the hand of the Lord was with him.

• People can be really surprised just by us doing what God asks - although it may seem small, if it is in God's plan the impact can be huge.
• The people were open to amazing things and to signs from God - they expected great things from John because of this God-inspired beginning.

vv76-77 And you, child, will be called the prophet of the Most High; for you will go before the Lord to prepare his ways, to give knowledge of salvation to his people by the forgiveness of their sins.

Just a lovely few verses. Yes, Zechariah is giving God's message but he is also speaking to his beloved son. Makes you think how God must feel about you!