The Sixth Day in the Octave of Christmas

There was a prophetess, Anna,
the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. 
She was advanced in years,
having lived seven years with her husband after her marriage,
and then as a widow until she was eighty-four. 
She never left the temple,
but worshiped night and day with fasting and prayer. 
And coming forward at that very time,
she gave thanks to God and spoke about the child
to all who were awaiting the redemption of Jerusalem.

When they had fulfilled all the prescriptions
of the law of the Lord,
they returned to Galilee,
to their own town of Nazareth. 
The child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom;
and the favor of God was upon him.

Luke 2:36-40


The peace of the Lord be with you.

Today we celebrate the sixth day of Christmas with six geese a laying. The six eggs of the geese represent fertility — the maintenance of the created world and the life that is to come. Each of us, each day, receives a call from God that prompts us to do our part for the maintenance and health of the world. In our reading today, the prophetess Anna shows great conviction to her call and her ministry as does the family of Jesus.

As we approach the coming of the new year may our ability to hear and our resolve to carry out our part in the world be strengthened and filled with grace. In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Readings for Wednesday, December 30, 2020