Daily Bible Reading — December 2023, God’s Saving Word: JoySample
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December 21
Introduction
Luke 1:1–25: Luke’s Gospel opens with a prologue in which he sets forth his claim “to write an orderly account” concerning Jesus. He begins by recounting the events surrounding the birth of John the Baptist. In today’s reading, the angel Gabriel appears to Zechariah and announces that, even though he and his wife Elizabeth are elderly, Elizabeth will bear a son who is to be named John. When Zechariah exhibits doubt about the angel’s message, he is rendered unable to speak. When Elizabeth becomes pregnant, she declares that the Lord has taken away her public disgrace.
Today’s Key Verse: Luke 1:15
John will be great in the Lord’s sight.… From his very birth he will be filled with the Holy Spirit.
Reflect
How does the angel Gabriel describe John and John’s mission (verses 15–17)? In a society that viewed having children as being blessed by God (Psalm 127:3–5), Elizabeth’s barrenness was a sign of public disgrace. Childless women were even the object of scorn (see 1 Samuel 1:6). Elizabeth’s pregnancy demonstrates God’s graciousness in reversing her position from one of shame to one of divine favor. Can you recall others in Israel’s history who experienced God’s favor through a child? (see Genesis 18:1–15; Genesis 21:1–8; Judges 13; 1 Samuel 1).
Pray
Holy God, teach me to be obedient to your Word. I trust in your promises. Open my eyes to your daily blessings. Guide me this day in the way of your truth. Amen.
Tomorrow’s Reading
Luke 1:26–56: The birth of Jesus is announced.
Scripture
About this Plan
![Daily Bible Reading — December 2023, God’s Saving Word: Joy](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimageproxy.youversionapi.com%2Fhttps%3A%2F%2Fs3.amazonaws.com%2Fyvplans%2F41819%2F1280x720.jpg&w=3840&q=75)
Daily Bible Reading helps you build consistent interaction with Scripture. Each day includes background information on the Bible passage, key verses for meditation, reflection questions to help you dive deeper into Scripture, and prayers to help you connect to God and others. Journey with us this month as we explore the theme, “God’s Saving Word: Joy.”
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We would like to thank American Bible Society for providing this plan. For more information, please visit: https://bibleresources.americanbible.org