3 Day Devotional: The People of Advent: When Love Shows Up - Day 2

Scripture: Luke 2:22–23 (NIV)
When the time came for the purification rites required by the Law of Moses, Joseph and Mary took him to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord (as it is written in the Law of the Lord, “Every firstborn male is to be consecrated to the Lord”),

Reflection
Forty days after His birth, Jesus is carried into the Temple. Every day, families came to the Temple to do exactly this. Every day, children were presented. Every day, offerings were brought. Nothing about this moment would have stood out. There is no celebration, no announcement, no recognition of who has arrived. This is insignificant recognition—love is present, but it goes unnoticed. Faithful obedience happens quietly, without applause or affirmation. And yet, love is no less real. Advent teaches us that love does not lose its value simply because no one stops to notice it. Some of the most meaningful expressions of love happen in unseen places, through faithful people who keep showing up even when there is no acknowledgment. God is still at work in moments that feel unremarkable, and love continues to show up whether it is recognized or not.

Reflection Questions
Where have you been tempted to stop serving because you felt unseen?
How does knowing that God sees your faithfulness change your perspective?

Prayer
God, help me remain obedient when my efforts go unnoticed. Teach me to show up in love without needing recognition, trusting that You see what others overlook. Strengthen me to keep serving with a faithful heart. Amen.