Daily Bible Reading — Sustained by God’s Word of JoySýnishorn
December 22
Introduction
The angel Gabriel is sent by God to Mary of Nazareth to announce that she is favored by God and chosen to be the mother of God’s Son. The angel tells Mary about Elizabeth’s pregnancy, and Mary then visits Elizabeth in Judea. The reading concludes with Mary’s song of praise, known in various faith traditions as the Magnificat (from the Latin “magnify”).
Today’s Scripture: Luke 1:32
“He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High God. The Lord God will make him a king, as his ancestor David was.”
Today’s Reading
Luke 1:26-56
Reflect
Today’s reading takes on the form of a dialogue between the angel Gabriel and Mary of Nazareth. Luke records three reactions on Mary’s part to the angel’s message. How does Mary react when the angel first speaks to her (verse 29)? What does the angel say next (verses 30-33)? What is Mary’s response (verse 34)? How does the angel reassure Mary (verses 35-37)? What do Mary’s final response (verse 38) and her song (verses 46-55) reveal about her faith?
Pray
Lord God, there is nothing you cannot do. Prepare my heart to be open to receive your Word. Yes, Lord, I am your servant. Order my steps this day. Amen.
Prayer Concern
First-time mothers
Tomorrow’s Reading
Luke 1:57-80: John the Baptist is born.
Ritningin
About this Plan
Daily Bible Reading is designed to facilitate consistent interaction with Scripture. It includes background information on each day’s Scripture passage and key verse for meditation, reflection questions to help you dive deeper into Scripture, a prayer and prayer concern to help you connect to God and be of spiritual support to others. Journey with us this month as we explore the theme “Sustained by God’s Word of Joy.”
More