(prayer time and message begins 13:00)

Mary and Joseph began to realize and reflect on what had happened at the birth of Jesus. That God wanted to love the world.  Two amazing encounters soon after His birth revealed that God was doing an astonishing thing for the world. Two people were waiting for God’s actions. Two people who were much older than Mary and Joseph. God designed His divine appointments for faithful, waiting, elderly people to meet their Savior Messiah: Simeon and Anna. Once they held the Babe and rejoiced in God’s faithfulness, they spoke words that would declare that baby’s entrance into the world was God’s Presence entering our world. These words spoke of hope.

These four adults who listened to God’s voice found Him to be faithful. They positioned themselves to listen. They prayed, they gave praise and thanks, they knew His Word. They learned about Who God was in their lives. When we position ourselves to listen, He will bring a word for you or someone who needs to hear His heart. Position yourself to listen. He wants to talk with you. He wants you to give His love and hope to others.

When we pray remember Paul’s words to love:

Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.  Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.

Romans 12:9-15