SCRIPTURE: Luke 2:21-40

OBSERVATION:
This event still takes place in a Jewish context (i.e. under the Law of Moses):
— Circumcision, consecrated and purified by sacrifice at the temple – as the Law of Moses required
— Simeon and Anna at temple, waiting for the promised messiah in the temple
Luke did a lot of research to find these personal stories (Luke 1:3), probably not well known stories, a rare glimpse into Jesus’ early years.
Both Simeon and Anna had waited a LONG time, though not near as long as Israel.
Unfortunately, most Jews would not accept Jesus as the promised messiah.
Simeon recognized that Jesus came for non-Jews too (v.32), Luke (a non-Jew) stresses this.
Simeon’s words to Joseph and Mary (vv.34-35) hardly seem a blessing.

APPLICATION:
Do I act on God’s promises, trusting Him to keep His Word, waiting for Him no matter how long?
When I am old, will I convey a message of faith and hope and love, what will people see/hear from me when I am old?
Jesus is the fulfillment of all God’s promises, the answer to all my prayers, am I as joyful at knowing/receiving Jesus?

PRAYER:
Lord, I want to be a good witness for You, now and when I am old. May I find in You my greatest joy, and may others see You in me, the true source of my joy. Amen.