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Candlemas: The Middle of Winter

Most of us mark February 2 as the day we jokingly put our trust in a little ground hog (Ground Hog Day). In jest, we call upon this furry little fellow to predict our winter fate, and like many other things that we might falsely rely on, the ground hog certainly cannot be trusted. While we know Ground Hog Day will come and go without any real hope concerning the arrival of spring, we do have a Savior whose light and promise of new life in Him is always certain.  

This second day of February, situated right in the middle of winter, is also celebrated by many Christians as “Candlemas.” Candlemas is 40 days after Christmas and marks the Feast of the Purification of Mary and the Feast of the Presentation of Jesus in the Temple. It is in the second chapter of Luke that we hear how Mary presented herself and the Christ child in the Temple according to the Law of Moses. Luke also presents to us these certain words of salvation in Christ Jesus proclaimed by faithful Simeon:

Lord, now you are letting your servant depart in peace,
according to your word;
for my eyes have seen your salvation
that you have prepared in the presence of all peoples,
a light for revelation to the Gentiles,
and for glory to your people Israel (Luke 2:29–32).

Historically, Candlemas is also the day that the candles of the church are blessed. Candles give us light and remind us of Christ our Savior. Through the Word of God, we are given the gift of the Holy Spirit who creates faith in our hearts to believe in Christ and proclaim Him as our true source of light and salvation. This same Holy Spirit was upon Simeon as he proclaimed Jesus as the Messiah there in the Temple. 

We never really know what that groundhog will do as February 2nd rolls around. However, when Candlemas comes, we hear and can be certain of Simeon's proclamation. This day, positioned right in middle of winter and spring, shines the light of hope, a hope that truly breaks the cold darkness of our sin and false winter hopes. Candlemas brings us a true and trustworthy proclamation of what is and what is to come. Only Christ Jesus breaks the darkness of sin and uncertainty and shines His everlasting light of salvation for all people! 

Prayer: Dear Father in Heaven, you reveal to us Your light found in Mary’s Child. Thank you for sending this Light of salvation for all people. May Simeon’s proclamation also be ours as we fully put our trust and hope only in Jesus. Amen. 

The Middle of Winter by Patti Miller, St. Louis, Missouri
Copyright © 2022 Lutheran Women’s Missionary League. All rights reserved.
lwml.org

Unless otherwise indicated, Scripture quotations were taken from the ESV Bible® (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), Copyright ©2001 by Crossway Bibles, a division of Good News Publishers.

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Philip, Pep in His Step

In the Word

So Philip ran to him and heard him reading Isaiah the prophet and asked, “Do you understand what you are reading?” And he said, “How can I, unless someone guides me?” And he invited Philip to come up and sit with him (Acts 8:30–31).

Of the Word

Either the chariot was stopped, moving slowly, or God gave Philip a little pep in his step as he ran and caught up to the chariot to hear the Ethiopian reading the scrolls of Isaiah. In any case, as Philip approached the chariot, he had the opportunity to explain Scripture to a searching soul.

How about you? Do you run toward witnessing opportunities or away from them? Or maybe just run a little slower so someone else gets there first?

It’s not always easy to share your faith. However, God didn’t just guide Philip to the chariot and leave. He provided Philip with the knowledge and the resources to tell the Ethiopian man about Christ. Trust that God will do the same for you. And do not be afraid to go where God will lead you.

Walking with my Lord

Heavenly Father, give me a little pep in my step as I notice and take advantage of witnessing opportunities all around me. Give me the knowledge and the resources to share Your Word with searching souls. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.

Mustard Seed: The Race of Faith. Author: Amanda Stacy, DCE. 27/28 ©2015 Lutheran Women’s Missionary League, 801 Seminary Place Ste. L010, St. Louis, MO 63105. Code: #40196

Unless otherwise indicated, Scripture quotations were taken from ESV Bible® (The Holy Bible English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

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Words for the Wise

In the Word

The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise man listens to advice (Proverbs 12:15).

Of the Word

Although it seemed right at the time, driving the wrong way caused loss of precious time. “Oh, if only I’d stopped to ask directions!” the driver moaned. Life can be much the same when we are spiritually lost because we have either not asked for, or have ignored, the good advice of others.

… a wise man listens to advice (Proverbs 12:15b), says the writer of Proverbs.

A lost driver can ask for directions or check a map or GPS. A lost soul can find direction in God’s Word. Jesus tells us, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life” (John 14:6b).The psalmist reminds us, Cast your burden on the LORD, and he will sustain you (Psalm 55:22a). And we have the comforting promise that nothing will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord (Romans 8:39b).

How thankful we can be that God’s words have impact on our daily lives. They are the words of love and grace that take us into eternity with Him!

A Point to Ponder: What wise advice from God will guide my way today?

Walking with my Lord

Lord God, thank You for Your Word, which gives direction for my life. Help me to listen, understand, and follow the guidance that You have given to me. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Mustard Seed: The Word: Wisdom for Living. Authors: Marcia Gomulka and Myrna Lou Meyer. 32/32 ©2015 Lutheran Women’s Missionary League, 801 Seminary Place Ste. L010, St. Louis, MO 63105. Code: #40198

Unless otherwise indicated, Scripture quotations were taken from ESV Bible® (The Holy Bible English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

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Bring on the Smiles!

In the Word

A glad heart makes a cheerful face … (Proverbs 15:13a).

Of the Word

Remember elephant jokes? Knock-knock jokes? Ole and Lena jokes? How about silly movies, crazy sit-coms, or goofy commercials? Some brought smiles and chuckles. Others brought genuine belly laughs! But a glad heart is more than smiles and chuckles, more lasting than any quickly-passing joke or drama. A glad heart is evidence of God’s presence in us and the sure knowledge of His love for us. The joy of His presence is reflected in a cheerful face.

Does that mean no sorrows, no troubles; no setbacks for His people? No, for we live in a world beset by them, a world filled with sin. But it does mean that, because of God’s presence, we can have joy in, around, and in spite of unhappiness. With the psalmist we can pray, Restore to me the joy of your salvation (Psalm 51:12a). We have Jesus’ promise, “I will see you again, and your hearts will rejoice, and no one will take your joy from you” (John 16:22b). His promise is no joke. It’s the reason for an eternal smile!

A Point to Ponder: How will my face reflect the joy of the Lord today?

Walking with my Lord

Thank You, Lord, for being in me and with me. Help me to reflect Your presence as I go about my daily routine. I ask this in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Mustard Seed: The Word: Wisdom for Living. Authors: Marcia Gomulka and Myrna Lou Meyer. 31/32 ©2015 Lutheran Women’s Missionary League, 801 Seminary Place Ste. L010, St. Louis, MO 63105. Code: #40198

Unless otherwise indicated, Scripture quotations were taken from ESV Bible® (The Holy Bible English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

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Photo Memories

In the Word

“See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands; …” (Isaiah 49:16a NIV).

Of the Word

Almost every home has them. They are scattered throughout the house on tables or bookshelves. Or they are displayed in a circular frame showing a progression of hair styles and smiles. The beloved, or bemoaned, school pictures. And there is always “the one” that makes you cringe and your children laugh hysterically. It is usually Mom’s favorite. School pictures are treasured by parents. They remember that child in that frozen moment of time. The memories enhance the love that has never diminished.

God cherishes us in the same way. God, who deliberately created every particle of us, carries us in His heart constantly. A popular poster reads, “If God had a wallet, your picture would be in it.” Even more amazing than a photo, our Father has a tattoo of us! He never forgets us. His unconditional love for us never changes. Jesus gave His life on the cross because He held your face in His outstretched hands.

Walking with my Lord

Lord, may my gratitude never cease for being Your precious and beloved child. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.

Mustard Seed: Everyday Celebrations. Authors: Elaine Bickel and Jan Struck. 28/28 ©2015 Lutheran Women’s Missionary League, 801 Seminary Place Ste. L010, St. Louis, MO 63105. Code: #40195

Unless otherwise indicated, Scripture quotations were taken from ESV Bible® (The Holy Bible English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

Scripture quotations marked (NIV) are taken from THE HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®, NIV® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

View printable version of this devotion, Photo Memories

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The Samaritan Leper, Giving Thanks

In the Word

And he said to him, “Rise and go your way, your faith has made you well” (Luke 17:19).

Of the Word

Ten men were cast out of the city due to their leprosy. Forced to live away from family and friends, the disease took a toll on them physically, socially, mentally, and spiritually. So when they raised their voices to Jesus seeking His mercy, He granted it. Imagine how overjoyed they were when they realized their disease was gone. Imagine just how fast they ran back to the arms of their loved ones (Luke 17:11–19).

But instead of running home, one man ran back to Jesus. Now, the Scripture doesn’t say he actually ran to Jesus, but don’t you think he did? His praise, posture, and thankfulness showed he knew Who made him well.

We, too, can follow the example of the one man. Raise up your voice to Jesus, seeking His mercy. And when He grants it, run to Him with praise and thankfulness.

Walking with my Lord

Heavenly Father, have mercy on me! Forgive me, heal me, and help me remember to run to You in praise and thankfulness when You give me all of these good things. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.

Mustard Seed: The Race of Faith. Author: Amanda Stacy, DCE. 28/28 ©2015 Lutheran Women’s Missionary League, 801 Seminary Place Ste. L010, St. Louis, MO 63105. Code: #40196

Unless otherwise indicated, Scripture quotations were taken from ESV Bible® (The Holy Bible English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

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Unfailing Love

In the Word

“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you. For I am the LORD your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior” (Isaiah 43:2–3a).

Of the Word

It was an uncertain time in the congregation. The pastor had taken a call to another church. He was dearly loved and likewise cared for God’s people with a Christ-like love. Now, what would the congregation do?

God does not promise that life will be an easy walk, containing no problems or trials for those He redeemed and who are called by His name. Rather, the Lord says that when His children pass through trials, whether it be flood waters, a burning building, or the loss of a beloved pastor, He will be with us. Life’s trials will not destroy us or His church.

Jesus is our Savior! He is not a happy congregation, beloved pastor, or even a care-free life. Even as we step into the rushing waters of unknown situations, we have the gift of His unfailing love and His promise, “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age” (Matthew 28:20b NIV).

Walking with my Lord

Lord Jesus, when troubles come in to my life, my family, and my church, watch over me and keep me safe in You. In Your name I pray. Amen.

Mustard Seed: In Times of Need. Authors: Rev. Larry Krueger, Rev. Mike Mattil, & Rev. Kris Whitby. 30/30 ©2015 Lutheran Women’s Missionary League, 801 Seminary Place Ste. L010, St. Louis, MO 63105. Code: #40197

Unless otherwise indicated, Scripture quotations were taken from ESV Bible® (The Holy Bible English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

Scripture quotations marked (NIV) are taken from THE HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®, NIV® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

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