Sunrise from on High

Daily Scripture Threshing for Thursday, January 4 2024

Today’s Text: Luke 1:68-79

Key Verse: Luke 1:78 (ESV): “Because of the tender mercy of our God, whereby the sunrise shall visit us from on high m.”

The context of this verse is the climax of the revealed purpose of our Lord's coming to earth. It’s a whole new day that will subsequently dawn for planet. I always remember the hymn of Frances Ridley Havergal, “Another year is dawning,” whenever this text comes to mind. As we face a new year—yes, the year is still new enough—we are reminded of the glorious light of Christ that shines upon us.

We are reminded of the wonderful new day of light and glory that is coming despite the world’s great darkness. And thought people interpret this scripture in different ways, and sometimes out of context. But as we face the new year, it’s so very important we look at this passage from both a prophetic and personal application. Let us consider the dawning of light for us, first, as a fulfilled prophecy: Jesus has been revealed and is the light of the world. Secondly, He will be revealed at the close of times as the ultimate victor over darkness just as light conquers the dark. And, thirdly, we must embrace His light so that His mercies, faithfulness and grace in the shining of His face might glow upon us.

So that not just the newly dawning year but our entire lifetime might be marked by mercies, grace,  progress, praise, and continued proving of His presence all the days for us. By this the words of Havergal’s song—verse 3—might find it direct association with today’s text in our lives: that it might be our year of service, of witness for His love; and above all, another year of training for holier work above.

Quote for the Day: “Wherever we are, whatever we’re doing, or whatever the season may be; our heart cry must always be: Dear Father, let it be another year for You.” — Simon Olatunji

Prayer: Dear Lord and Father, thank You for light—Your light; and thank You for You are the Light of the world. I ask, Lord, that You give me boldness to shine Your light wherever I go. Stay with me and then I shall begin to shine as You shine; and never shall I be able to hide my light under a bushel — in Jesus Christ’s name. Amen.

With all my love and prayers,

Rev Simon Wale Olatunji, Ph.D.

Your Darling Bishop (DaBishop)

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[Daily Scripture Threshing is a devotional guide of The House of Prayer Evangel Church USA distributed for free use by individuals, small groups, families, and Christian churches]

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