Wed., Dec. 30: 1 John 2:12-17; Luke 2:36-40

The world and its enticements are passing away, but whoever does the will of God remains forever. The world itself is God’s creation, awaiting God’s rule, but John uses "the world" here to mean the domain of Satan. Worldly possessions and attitudes lead us away from God. The Christmas season juxtaposes the image of the Savior as a helpless infant born in a stable, the child of the poor, against the overkill bombast of images touting the glitter of material things. Let us resolve to learn what we can do to heal and preserve our planet and to ensure an equitable distribution of the earth’s resources to all God’s beloved children.

*Lord, grant us your wisdom and your grace that we may grow strong in your service.