Are you eagerly anticipating an answer to a meaningful prayer?

We never tire of hearing about the birth of Christ. We’re familiar with the story of Mary and Joseph and their journey to Bethlehem. We also know about the three wise men, but do you know about a man named Simeon, who waited to behold the face of the promised Messiah? Simeon had a reputation for being a righteous and devout man. The Holy Spirit told him he would live to see the Messiah. The people who knew of him were bewildered by his daily trips to the Temple, but Simeon waited, never doubting that God’s promise would soon arrive. For many generations, the people of God breathlessly awaited the Messiah’s arrival. Finally, in the little town of Bethlehem, Jesus was born.

Not long after His birth, Mary and Joseph traveled to Jerusalem to present Him to God in the temple. Simeon noticed the couple arriving with a newborn baby. He had waited his whole life for this moment. He approached them, fixed his eyes on Jesus, and gasped joyfully. He knew he was looking at the face of his Messiah. Simeon's elated reception of Jesus was to acknowledge that Jesus was indeed the world's Savior. He came to deliver us from sin and death, and His glory would later be revealed.

There are lessons we learn from Simeon’s story. Before He left this world, Jesus told His disciples that He would prepare a place for them and return to claim His Church (John 14:2-3).  As we await Jesus to return, we must have faith, be patient, and understand that God's timing is impeccable. Simeon’s faithfulness to God’s promise stands as a powerful witness for those who wait on the Lord. Believers can relate to Simeon's hope as we, too, lean on God’s promises.  Like Simeon awaiting the birth of the promised Messiah, we can wait confidently knowing that Jesus will return. All of God’s prophecies will be fulfilled.

How can you be like Simeon as you live with the hope of Jesus' return?

While you’re waiting, have you taken the opportunity to actively share and encourage others with the gospel of Jesus Christ?

Father God, thank you for sending your Son, Jesus, to redeem me. Thank you for the ultimate sacrifice He made on the cross so I could have eternal salvation. I await Jesus’ return with great hope and anticipation. As I wait, help me to live in a way that pleases and honors You. I pray for those who have not accepted You as their Lord and Savior. I pray that their hearts will soften and that they will not miss the opportunity to turn from their sins and receive You before You return. I pray this in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Scripture References:

Psalm 98:2-3; Psalm 105:1-3; Isaiah 25:9; Isaiah 52:10; Matthew 24:36; John 20:31; Acts 28:28