“Simeon was there. He took the child in his arms and praised God, saying, 29 “Sovereign Lord, now let your servant die in peace, as you have promised. 30 I have seen your salvation, 31which you have prepared for all people. 32 He is a light to reveal God to the nations, and he is the glory of your people Israel!” 33 Jesus’ parents were amazed at what was being said about him.”
Luke 2:28-33 NLT
“Anna, a prophet, was also there in the Temple. She was the daughter of Phanuel from the tribe of Asher, and she was very old. Her husband died when they had been married only seven years. 37 Then she lived as a widow to the age of eighty-four. She never left the Temple but stayed there day and night, worshiping God with fasting and prayer. 38 She came along just as Simeon was talking with Mary and Joseph, and she began praising God. She talked about the child to every- one who had been waiting expectantly for God to rescue Jerusalem.” Luke 2:36-38
“Three days later they finally discovered him in the Temple, sitting among the religious teachers, listening to them and asking questions. 47 All who heard him were amazed at his understanding and his answers. 48 His parents didn’t know what to think. “Son,” his mother said to him, “why have you done this to us? Your father and I have been frantic, searching for you everywhere.” 49 “But why did you need to search?” he asked. “Didn’t you know that I must be in my Father’s house?” 50 But they didn’t understand what he meant. 51 Then he returned to Nazareth with them and was obedient to them. And his mother stored all these things in her heart. 52 Jesus grew in wisdom and in stature and in favour with God and all the people.” Luke 2:46-52 NLT
Father in heaven,
Again I turn to Luke as he records the few details of your Son’s childhood. He was just like one of us but those who were close to You recognised Him. Anna and Simeon. And You loved not just learning but understanding even when You were young. And You grew in wisdom and favour. with God and all people.
Help us to be able to recognise where You are working and what You are doing. And we ask that we might join in and help. Help us not just to learn about You facts and text addresses but have understanding. As no two situations are the same and we too need Your wisdom to do good and no harm. Help us to win favour with people so we can share the gospel. Even if they have rough edges or are prickly. And may You look upon us with favour through Your Son.
In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
Worship Sunday 19th October 2025
I need to speed through the gospels to reach Revelation by December 31st but can always find time to reread and remember His life. This may be a dated hymn now but I love it.
Tell me the story of Jesus,
write on my heart ev’ry word;
tell me the story most precious,
sweetest that ever was heard.
Tell how the angels in chorus
sang as they welcomed His birth,
“Glory to God in the highest!
Peace and good tidings to earth.”
Tell me the story of Jesus,
write on my heart ev’ry word;
tell me the story most precious,
sweetest that ever was heard.
Fasting alone in the desert,
tell of the days that are past,
how for our sins He was tempted,
yet was triumphant at last.
Tell of the years of His labour,
tell of the sorrow He bore,
He was despised and afflicted,
homeless, rejected, and poor.
Chorus
Tell of the cross where they nailed Him,
writhing in anguish and pain;
tell of the grave where they laid Him,
tell how He liveth again.
Love in that story so tender,
clearer than ever I see.
Stay, let me weep while you whisper,
love paid the ransom for me.
Chorus
Lyrics: Fanny Crosby