“Now there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon; this man was righteous and devout, looking forward to the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit rested on him. It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Messiah. Guided by the Spirit, Simeon came into the temple; and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him what was customary under the law, Simeon took him in his arms and praised God, saying,
‘Master, now you are dismissing your servant in peace,
according to your word;
for my eyes have seen your salvation,
which you have prepared in the presence of all peoples,
a light for revelation to the Gentiles
and for glory to your people Israel.’
‘Master, now you are dismissing your servant in peace,
according to your word;
for my eyes have seen your salvation,
which you have prepared in the presence of all peoples,
a light for revelation to the Gentiles
and for glory to your people Israel.’
…
There was also a prophet, Anna the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was of a great age, having lived with her husband for seven years after her marriage, then as a widow to the age of eighty-four. She never left the temple but worshipped there with fasting and prayer night and day. At that moment she came, and began to praise God and to speak about the child to all who were looking for the redemption of Jerusalem.”
Luke 2: 25-32; 36-38
Luke 2: 25-32; 36-38
This is the last day of 2023! It’s traditionally a good day to reflect on the year we have just lived as individuals- what we accomplished, how we grew, changes we made, blessings we were given…. As a church it’s a good time to contemplate our legacy as Christians. The scripture passage this morning speaks about Anna and Simeon and how they recognize Jesus well before the rest of the world does, and for his mission to the world. It is astounding how often older experienced Christians are the first to recognize people for their gifts and missions in the world. Sometimes it takes the wisdom of our elders to show us the way we can serve the Lord.
Organ preludes will begin around 10:25 a.m. and the service will commence at 10:30 a.m. The link for this morning’s service is: https://youtube.com/live/81b2cIbyA1s?feature=share
Previous services can be found on the St. Andrew’s YouTube channel at: https://www.youtube.com/c/StAndrewsPresbyterianChurchKingston
Have a look at the Order of Service, scripture readings, hymn lyrics and announcements below – this electronic form includes hyperlinks for easy connection, but you can print the pages if you wish for reference as the hour unfolds, or even through the week. We invite you to join in worship, study and service as you are able.