Spiritual Growth
1 John 2:12–17; Psalm 96; Luke 2:36–40
Three stages of spiritual growth are mentioned in 1 John 2:12–13 (the first reading). They are: fathers, young men, and children. This sequence represents the development of spiritual understanding and faith over time. Therefore, let’s reflect on the different stages of our spiritual journey, prioritize a deeper relationship with God, and align our lives with His enduring purposes.
John also cautions us against falling in love with the world and its fleeting nature. He reminds us that the things of this world, such as pride, material belongings, and desires, are ephemeral and transient. Therefore, let’s remain faithful to the timeless principles and ideals of God’s realm.
Similarly, the Gospel tells us of Anna’s faithfulness to God; she was of a great age, having lived with her husband seven years from her virginity, and as a widow till she was eighty-four, the Gospel says she remained faithful and was always in the temple praying and fasting.
Anyone who wants to be faithful to God amidst present-day distractions must learn the acts of fasting and praying. In prayer, we relate to God, while fasting separates us from the world. In prayer, we do the Father’s will, while in fasting, we renounce the world. Let us imitate Anna, a champion of hope, and seek God’s grace as we continue to grow in our faith and obedience to His will.
Let us pray.
Grant, we pray, almighty God, that the newness of the Nativity in the flesh of your Only Begotten Son may set us free, for ancient servitude holds us bound beneath the yoke of sin. Through Christ our Lord. Amen
Fr. Daniel Evbotokhai
