Ascension : Church News
Submitted by The Islander (Clive & Jenny Duncan) 11.02.2010 (Article Archived on 25.02.2010)

We are all aware that waiting cannot only be difficult but also a challenge.

We are all aware that waiting cannot only be difficult but also a challenge. 

Waiting was a challenge for Simeon and Anna, the two people we are told about in St. Luke’s Gospel (2: 22-40).

Simeon was an old man.  For many years he waited for the coming of the Messiah.  He was a good, God-fearing man.  The Holy Spirit was with him and had assured him that he would not die before he had seen the Lord’s promised Messiah.  When Mary and Joseph entered the Temple with Jesus, Simeon was moved by the Holy Spirit. He knew that this was the one and didn’t have to look any further.

Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, was eighty-four years old.  She never left the temple.  Day and night she worshipped God, fasting and praying.  She arrived at the same hour and gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who were looking for the liberation of Jerusalem.

Simeon and Anna are a good example for us to try and follow when we are faced with the problems of waiting.    We know that it is not going to be easy but we can seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit and put our full trust in him as we listen to what he is telling us what we have to do.

Have a pleasant week.

Canon Clive.