Introduction

Good morning, brothers and sisters in Christ, and welcome to our time of worship and reflection. We are gathered here, not as strangers or mere spectators, but as a family, united by a common faith and a shared love for our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Today we will be turning our attention to a passage in the Gospel of Luke, a narrative that brings us face-to-face with two individuals who have much to teach us about faith, duty, and focus. But before we do, let's take a moment to consider a profound statement from the great preacher and theologian, Charles Spurgeon. He once said, "Faith goes up the stairs that love has built and looks out the windows which hope has opened."

This statement, in all its profound simplicity, serves as a compass for our discussion today. It points us towards the truth that our faith is not a solitary entity, but rather, it is intertwined with love and hope. It is these three elements - faith, hope, and love - that form the bedrock of our Christian life.

Now, let's turn our attention to the Scripture at hand, Luke 2:25-38:

Facing Life's Challenges with Faith

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. It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not die before he had seen the Lord’s Messiah. 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:

'Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you may now dismiss your servant in peace. For my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the sight of all nations: a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of your people Israel.'

The child’s father and mother marveled at what was said about him. Then Simeon blessed them and said to Mary, his mother: 'This child is destined to cause the falling and rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be spoken against, so that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your own soul too.'

There was also a prophet, Anna, the daughter of Penuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was very old; she had lived with her husband seven years after her marriage, and then was a widow until she was eighty-four. She never left the temple but worshiped night and day, fasting and praying. Coming up to them at that very moment, she gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who were looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem.

Fulfilling Our Duties Despite Difficulties

The first aspect that stands out is Simeon's active faith ... View this full PRO sermon free with PRO