She Drew "Conclusions in Her Heart

 

More Sayings to Preserve

On the baby's eight day, Mary and Joseph had him circumsized as the Mosaic Law required, naming him Jesus, as directed. (Luke 1:31) Then, on the 40 day, they took him from Bethelem to the temple in Jersalem, some six miles  (about 10 km) away, and presented the purification offerings that the Law allowed for poorer folk-two turtledoves or two pigeons.  If they felt shame in offering less than the ram amd a turtledove that other parents could afford, they put such feelings aside. At any rate, they recieved powerful encouragement while they were there. - LUKE 2:21-24.

And aged man named Simeon approached them and gave Mary more sayings to treasure in her heart.  He had been promised tha the would see the Messiah before he died, and Jehovah's holy spirit indicated to him that little Jesus was the foretold Savior.  Simeon also warned Mary of the pain that she  would one day she would feel as if a long sword were through her.  (Luke 2:25-35)   Even those foreboding words may  have helped Mary to endure when that hard time arrived, three decades later.  Afer Simeon, a prophetess named Anna saw little Jesus and began speaking about him to everyone who cherished the hope of Jerusalem's deliverance. - Read LUKE 2:36-38.

What a good decision Joseph and Mary had made in bringing their baby to Jeovah's templel in Jersalem.  While there, they gave of themselves according to their ability and received words of instruction and encouragement.  Mary surely left the temple that day stronger in faith, her heart full spiritual sayings to meditate  on and share with others. 

It is a beautiful thing to see parents today following that example.  Among Jehovah's Witnesses, parents faithfully bring their children to Christian meetings.  Such parents give what they can, offering words of encouragement to their fellow believers. and they come away happier and stronger, and full of good things to share with others.  What a pleasure is it to meet them! As we do, we will find that our faith, like Mary's will grow stronger. 

Next time: IMITATE THEIR FAITH/ She Was "Declared Righteous by Works"

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