Simeon: Luke 2:22-35
Many of us feel like we are always waiting, waiting for that next big thing in life, waiting for a spouse, a job, and a health diagnosis. We may feel like we are waiting with no guarantee that what we are waiting for will ever come. The Christmas story has something to say about this to us today. For context, Simeon was a righteous and devout man, anointed with the Holy Spirit. Just like many generations of Israelites before him, he was waiting for God to send his promised Redeemer. God promised him that he would see the Messiah in his lifetime. One day, Simeon entered the Temple, as his habit, and saw Jesus as a child. Here’s what we can learn from his story:
- God is pleased when we thank him for the blessings in our own lives.
Upon seeing him, Simeon lifted Jesus and praised God for his faithfulness. He thanked God for bringing salvation to Israel and the rest of the world. Even if there are things that we pray and wait for, there are many other things that God has graciously given us that we should remember and praise him for in our waiting.
- The most important thing for us to wait for today is the return of Jesus.
Simeon experienced Christ’s first coming, but God commands us to be ready for His 2nd coming. His return will be the ultimate comfort. His return will be the greatest gift we can enjoy.
So, what are you waiting for this Christmas season? Are you praising God for the ways he has revealed Himself during your waiting?