Daily Gospel Reflection for December 23, 2023

Join us as we reflect, ponder, and pray together inspired by today's Gospel.

Today's Gospel: Luke 1:57-66

My friends, you should probably read this story a few times! It is filled with lovely words, and if you dive into this story the imagery will leave your heart full and your perspective and purpose properly adjusted. This short Gospel uses words like rejoiced, amazed, opened and blessing. It tells a story steeped in faithfulness, affirmation, mercy, and wonder.

This Gospel models how we should support and rejoice when blessings come upon others when all too often others' blessings and good fortune can be cause for jealousy. I was reminded of the words of a wise friend who told me once that everyone has a life filled with blessings and shadows and we should be careful not to be jealous about someone’s blessing because we have no idea about their shadows. Elizabeth and John had a fabulous blessing, and it’s a good lesson for my heart to remember that it came at the end of a long shadow of childlessness.

Every Wednesday in my classroom is “What’s He Doin'? Wednesday” when students share the places God has been at work in their lives. I remind the kids that He is always doing something, we just aren’t always so good at recognizing it. When I read today's Gospel, I am reminded that I’m not just supposed to recognize His works but to be amazed by them. I think I need to get better at shifting from being observant to being amazed. He certainly gives me cause to be every single day!

John was the model of a faithful servant especially after he had time to be quiet and contemplate. He and Elizabeth show us faithfulness, confidence, and gratitude for the Lord’s great mercy. I think I might have been tempted to cave in to the opinion of others, but not Elizabeth. And John. His first words after all those months of silence were faithful and beautiful not self-focused like mine might have been. This whole story mirrors the glory of God shining through the hearts of His beloved. As the story ends, it makes me want to act more like I know I’m His beloved.

Ponder:

Write down the words rejoice, amazed and open and carry them with you today asking the Father to point you to the places He’s bringing those words to life throughout your day.

Pray:

Heavenly Father, open my eyes to the wonder and glory of Your works. Help me marvel at Your works in my life and in the lives of those around me.

Click to tweet:
This whole story mirrors the glory of God shining through the hearts of His beloved. #DailyGospel

Copyright 2023 Sheri Wohlfert