Today's Scripture
One Year Bible Daily Reading – Esther 6-8; Luke 13:1-22
Scripture: Luke 2:34-35
34 Simeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother, “This boy is assigned to be the cause of the falling and rising of many in Israel and to be a sign that generates opposition 35 so that the inner thoughts of many will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your innermost being too.”
What does this passage mean to me/us?
Contributed by Rev. Seungsoo Jun
It is always a great idea to look back on the year and see how God is working in our lives. In a year, many things can change. Talking about change, imagine the changes Mary walked through. An angel appeared to her, she became pregnant before marriage, and now with a baby she delivered in a manger. She might have thought, ‘what more can happen?’
On the celebratory day to consecrate her baby in the temple, she encounters some odd moments. Two prophets rejoice, as Mary and Joseph bring this baby to the temple. The parents might have been in awe of how they recognized the baby. Although most of the prophecy of these prophets were filled with hope, the last word might have stuck in Mary’s heart. ‘And a sword will pierce your own soul too.’
Maybe during Jesus’ suffering on the cross, Mary might have experienced a flashback. Every whip and piercing of Jesus’ body must have penetrated through Mary’s soul. It’s hard to imagine the pain she endured at that moment.
However, we know that the suffering did not suffocate Mary’s soul. Many of the apostles rejoiced in suffering because it was a sign that they participated in the suffering of Christ. We also know, when we suffer, we experience Christ with us!
Can you see Christ in your suffering? Can we rejoice in how our Lord never forsakes us?
Prayer
Lord, You are our faithful savior! You are the ‘way maker, miracle maker, promise keeper’ even in the time of suffering. Help us to see Your presence, especially in the time of suffering, and rejoice with You.
In Christ’s name, we pray, Amen.
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