FIRST SUNDAY AFTER CHRISTMAS
DECEMBER 26, 2021
AS WE GATHER
Simeon and Anna rejoiced when Mary and Joseph brought week-old Jesus to the temple. He was physical proof that God was keeping His promises made centuries ago. Firstborn males had to be consecrated to God because He had spared them at the time of the exodus. In our Psalm today, God promises redemption for His people, and in Christ we are His chosen people, holy and dearly loved, as Paul writes in the Epistle. Today is the Sunday after Christmas, and we focus on how we exhibit love, forgiveness, and peace, thanking God for His promises kept.
BIBLE READINGS
OLD TESTAMENT READING: Exodus 13:1–3a, 11–15
(Every firstborn Israelite male must be redeemed, remembering the exodus.)
EPISTLE READING: Colossians 3:12–17
(“Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly”.)
HOLY GOSPEL: Luke 2:22-40
(Simeon and Anna praise God when they see the baby Jesus in the temple.)