A Year in Luke/ActsSample

At the end of the chapter, Jesus is presented at the Temple. Simeon and Anna, who had been studying, praying, and interceding their whole lives, recognize who this baby is. Remember Luke’s reasoning for writing his gospel in chapter 1:1; the events he will describe show that Jesus fulfilled the role of Messiah. These two faithful servants confirm that Jesus is the one they have spent their whole lives waiting for. They are an example of people who lived faithfully in and around the Temple in expectation of the Messiah. Whilst many got stuck focusing on the wrong things, these two elderly people longed for God’s promise to Israel to be fulfilled. Finally, their waiting is over. Because of their posture of faithful expectation, they instantly recognize that the Messiah is here! Rather than the priests, these two outsiders join the shepherds in announcing who Jesus is.

How can we carry the expectation of Jesus returning to establish his kingdom in this way? This is a question worth thinking and meditating on today.