The Prophet Joel (800 B.C.) predicted the desolation of Jerusalem. He also prophesied that the Holy Spirit would be poured out upon all people, through the Savior of the world (Joel 2:28-32).
The hymnographer Anatolius links Joel’s prophecy to the Nativity of the Lord. In the Praises at Matins on the Sunday following the Nativity, he refers to Joel 2:30, saying that the blood refers to the Incarnation, the fire to the Divinity, and the pillars of smoke to the Holy Spirit.
Troparion — Tone 2
We celebrate the memory / of Your prophet Joel, O Lord; / Through him we beseech You: / save our souls.
Kontakion — Tone 4
Podoben: “Today You have shown forth...” / Illumined by the Spirit, your heart was a vessel of illustrious prophecy, / seeing far-off things as though they were present. / Therefore, we venerate you, glorious prophet Joel.