Betwixt And Between (Sunday After Christmas And Before New Year)

The phrase "betwixt and between" is an old-fashioned or literary expression that means being in an intermediate or transitional state—neither fully one thing nor the other. It describes a situation of uncertainty, ambiguity, or being caught in the middle.

One such example is the days after Christmas where it feels betwixt and between, not quite the old year, not yet the new."

Introduction

As the year draws to a close, we find ourselves in a unique in-between time. Christmas has come, yet the new year is not quite here. It’s a time to pause, reflect, and look forward. This Sunday offers us an opportunity to consider what God has done in the year gone by and to seek His guidance for the year ahead.

1. Reflecting on the Year Past: Seeing God’s Faithfulness

In Luke 2, we meet Simeon and Anna—two faithful servants of God who lived their lives in expectation of His promises. Simeon waited for the consolation of Israel, trusting God to fulfill His word. Anna, in her devotion, worshiped God day and night in the temple.

• Simeon’s Faithful Waiting: Reflect on how God has shown His faithfulness to you this year. Were there moments where you, like Simeon, had to wait on Him? Celebrate His faithfulness in those times.

• Anna’s Worshipful Dedication: Consider how worship and prayer sustained you through challenges. Have there been moments of deep connection with God despite difficulties?

Challenge: Write down three ways God has been faithful to you in the past year. Bring those to God in gratitude during this service.

2. Living in the Present: Embracing God’s Presence

Simeon’s and Anna’s stories remind us to live fully in the present moment with eyes open to God’s work. When Simeon held Jesus, he declared, “My eyes have seen your salvation” (Luke 2:30). He recognized that God was fulfilling His promises in real time.

• Embracing Jesus in the Everyday: Are we attuned to God’s presence in our daily lives? As we close this year, can we commit to noticing where God is at work around us?

• Celebrating God With Us: The message of Christmas doesn’t fade after December 25th. Emmanuel—God with us—is true every day.

Challenge: Take time this week to notice and celebrate God’s presence in the ordinary moments.

3. Looking Ahead: Renewing Our Commitment to God’s Purpose

As Anna and Simeon lived with purpose and anticipation, so can we. The turning of the calendar invites us to consider what God might be calling us to in the year ahead.

• Renewed Anticipation: Like Simeon and Anna, can we enter 2024 with hearts ready to see God’s hand? What dreams or hopes is He planting in you?

• Aligning with His Will: As we set goals or resolutions, let’s ask, “How can I align my plans with God’s purpose for my life?”

Challenge: Spend time in prayer this week asking God to show you His vision for the new year.

Conclusion

The story of Simeon and Anna offers us a beautiful model for this transitional time. It teaches us to reflect on God’s faithfulness, live fully in His presence, and look ahead with hope and purpose.

As we leave this year behind and step into the next, may we carry the light of Christmas into every moment, trusting that the God who was faithful yesterday will be faithful tomorrow.

Closing Prayer

Lord, as this year ends, we thank You for Your faithfulness in every season. Help us to see You at work in our lives and to trust You in the year ahead. Renew our hope, strengthen our faith, and guide us into Your purpose. In Jesus’ name, Amen.