Service to God was an everyday part of Samuel’s life from a young age and he managed to do it in ways that was both pleasing to God and to the people around him.

The wisdom of Elizabeth’s years allowed her to bring comfort and joy to Mary.

This time of year, we think about the importance of Jesus taking on flesh to show us how far God would go for love of the world.

Mary was able to look beyond the implications of what this pregnancy would mean for her in the short-term and see the big picture of what God was doing.

As people who are living in our own fearful times, these are promising words for us.

John's message is an urgent warning that we should take nothing for granted, that the best time to turn back to God is now.

For some, practicing joy is as natural as breathing, but for the rest of us, it takes a bit more work.

What, in your life, do you celebrate joyfully?

There are consequences for our actions, some beneficial and others difficult to bear, but through it all is God’s steadfast love.