Worth the Wait

Read

Luke 2:25, 27-28, 30-31 “Now there was a man in Jerusalem called Simeon, who was righteous and devout. He was waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was on him...Moved by the Spirit, he went into the temple courts. When the parents brought in the child Jesus to do for him what the custom of the Law required, Simeon took him in his arms and praised God, saying, ‘For my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the sight of all nations.’”

Think

Simeon's story has always resonated deeply with believers. His name, "God has heard," holds such profound significance. Like him, we can often feel the weight of waiting, hoping, and trusting in God's promises. Simeon's faith was extraordinary, especially considering the silence of God for 400 years before Christ's birth. Yet, even in that silence, Simeon clung to the hope of seeing the promised Messiah.

We find his unwavering faith during such a long period of anticipation incredibly inspiring. His hope wasn't tied to circumstances or human timetables; it was anchored in an unchanging God. That moment when he held the baby Jesus in his arms must have been an experience that was beyond words—an overwhelming realization of God's faithfulness and the fulfillment of his deepest longing.

Simeon lived for that singular moment. His heart was wholly focused on one thing: to witness the Savior promised by God. When he finally cradled the infant Christ, his joy and gratitude poured out in praise, echoing his unwavering faith.

Reflecting on Simeon's story reminds us that God's timing is perfect. Sometimes, the wait for answers to prayer can feel long and uncertain. But Simeon's faith encourages us to persist in prayer and trust that God is faithful. Just as he fulfilled his promise to Simeon, we can be confident that he will also fulfill his promises to us in his perfect time

Apply

We can learn from Simeon’s unwavering faith as we lean on God’s faithfulness and believe he is trustworthy. Look up Psalm 27:13-14 and Isaiah 40:31 to be reminded of the power of waiting.

Pray

Lord, I surrender my desires and outcomes to your sovereign will. I believe that your wisdom surpasses my understanding. I will trust you to guide my path. In Jesus’ name. Amen.