Read: Luke 2:25-35
Now there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon, and this man was righteous and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. (v. 25)
Waiting can be excruciating, especially when one is waiting with uncertainty, remaining suspended between “yes and no” and “now and then.” What do you do when you are not in control? It may be a long wait for a marriage proposal, a career opportunity, healing, a promotion, or a pending court decision—waiting for something to happen, for something to move forward.
Being focused on the anticipated result can wear you out mentally and emotionally. Pushing forward to a dead end is neither encouraging nor productive. Today’s reading gives us a picture of faithful waiting. Simeon waited with uncertainty, but he “was righteous and devout” and “the Holy Spirit was upon him” (v. 25). Not in him but “upon” him. Notice also that he was in the right location, so he did not miss seeing Jesus. His expectation was fulfilled: “My eyes have seen your salvation” (v. 30).
For Simeon, waiting demanded the right focus and absolute trust in God. For us, waiting should include reflection on our values and a focus on God, who is our ultimate love. Then, the act of waiting will not wear us out, but instead become an opportunity for renewal and reinvigoration. As Christians, we not only wait for the anticipated result, but we wait upon the Lord himself.
As you pray, ask God to transform your waiting period into a season of growth and creative production.
About the Author
Words of Hope’s South Asia Ministry field leader is based in India and works with more than 70 team members sharing the hope of the gospel in more than 20 languages. Because of security concerns, we have chosen not to share his name.
