Christmas Continues

“For the Christmas spirit is the spirit of those who, like their Master, live their whole lives on the principle of making themselves poor - spending and being spent - to enrich their fellowmen, giving time, trouble, care and concern to do good to others - and not just their own friends - in whatever way there seems need.” - J.I. Packer

A few days after Jesus’ birth, His parents took Him to the temple. There they encountered an 84-year-old widow named Anna. Luke shares the account. “There was also a prophetess, Anna. . . She was eighty-four. She never left the temple but worshiped night and day, fasting and praying.” (Luke 2:36-37)

This remarkable lady devoted her life to service at the temple. Day after day, she participated in unending worship, demonstrated by fasting and prayer.

But when baby Jesus arrived, her lifelong routine was interrupted, and her expression of worship shifted significantly.

Luke goes on, “Coming up to them at that very moment, she gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who were looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem.” (Luke 2:38)

When she encountered Jesus, her prayer and fasting gave way to praise and exuberant testimony. Nothing wrong with prayer and fasting, but in the presence of Jesus, her joy overflowed, and she could not help thanking God and telling others the good news!

As we conclude Christmas 2020, let us follow Anna’s example. Remain in awe of the Christmas miracle, thank God for his amazing gift, and tell others the good news.

Dan Bolin

President

Refueling in Flight Ministries, Inc