Advent Reflections Day 23 (22nd December, 2025)

First reading: 1 Samuel 1:24-28;
Psalm: 1 Samuel 2:1,4-5,6-7,8abcd (R. see 1a);
Gospel: Luke 1:46-56

Dear brothers and sisters in the Lord, as we bask in the joyful mysteries of Christmas; the celebration of the manifest presence of God in man, be reminded that we must offer ourselves as a living sacrifice, to operate in our ordinances as priest, kings and prophets. Jesus our messiah ascended on high and held captivity (sin) captive, He brought gifts for us to function in our respective offices in the body of Christ (The Church). Maturity (perfection of the saints) in the Lord Jesus Christ is a function of responsibility (Ephesians 4:7-16).

Today, we see in the first reading, how Samuel was offered as a living sacrifice, to serve as a router of God’s signals from a tender age. We should offer our children early (< 5 years) enough for them to attain full bloom in destiny (Christ).

The second reading inform us of Mother Mary’s utterances occasioned by the presence of God in her womb. The ambient of God is the ambient of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit always gives utterances when we are in His purpose and duty (Ephesians 6:19-20; Luke 12:11-12). Mother Mary prophesied that all generations shall call her blessed. This is definitely so. The conception of Jesus is the beginning of a life of living sacrifice. Mary was totally offered to God, henceforth.

This is a reawakening, that the presence of the Holy Spirit in and with us (John 14:15-21) is the commencement of a total offering of ourselves as living sacrifice unto God.

Prayer.
Our Father, we thank you for becoming the son of man that we can be made sons of God. Let the working power of your word in our heart manifest you in our dealings. We shall manifest Jesus in the power of the Holy to destroy the works of the devil. Amen.

Written by Bro Femi Oludemi