Scripture: Luke 2:25-38
It may seem like we’re skipping the main act by reading this passage, but these two people are the epitome of the Advent season. Advent is about anticipation. We all are looking forward for something to happen. The internet gives this definition of anticipation: “excitement, waiting eagerly for something you know is going to happen.” What are we waiting for? What is going to happen? Are you excited? Or are you dreading the rush of the season? Not enough money? Not enough time to do the things you want? Scared by all that is going on in the world?
Simeon was waiting. The term also gives an air of “eagerness to welcome.” A devout man of God, Simeon had been told by the Holy Spirit that he would see the Messiah before he died. So, he waited eagerly to welcome His Lord. Anna, given a place among the prophets, also waited. She had spent most of her long life as a widow. Anna spent her days fasting, praying and praising her God – and waiting. Both these lovers of God were incredibly old. Anna at 84 was more than twice the normal life expectancy of the time.
These two individuals were not going to witness Easter. They were not going to see the miracles of Jesus or hear His wise words. Just setting eyes of this little baby was all they needed to know that God was working to redeem the world. What faith!
I have felt a tiny touch of what these two felt this year. Dave and I have waited for our oldest son to have a child. Jonathan has been great with the children of his cousins. He has suffered through divorce and found love again. At 36, he will become a dad. Actually, by the time you read this, he may already be holding his baby girl. A child brings so much promise for the future. Such joy.
Jesus, as a baby born into this world, brought more promise than we can even imagine. Once Anna saw Him, she told everyone about this baby who would be the redemption of Jerusalem. Are we telling people about Jesus? Are we sharing with those who are looking for rescue? So many people are living in darkness, pain, hunger, unimaginable misery. Receive extraordinary joy by sharing with others the news that the Christ Child is born and He’s coming again.
Lynn Odom, married to Dave, anticipates immense joy this Christmas as her 2nd granddaughter joins Ava in calling her “Granna.”