Amazing Testimonies to Jesus’ Future Ministry

Text: Luke 2:22-40

Reflection and Question: As devout Jews, Jesus’ parents take their first-born son to the Temple in Jerusalem to be dedicated to God. This provides a public occasion for further recognition of Jesus’ amazing role of bringing God’s salvation. The prophecies of Simeon and Anna confirm the words of the angel to the shepherds shared with Mary and Joseph in Bethlehem. Simeon seeks “the consolation of Israel.” Anna speaks of Jesus to those “who were looking for the redemption of Jerusalem.” And Simeon’s prayer adds to these “a light for revelation to the Gentiles.” How do you explain what Jesus will be?

Prayer: Now, Lord, you let your servant go in peace; your word has been fulfilled.
My own eyes have seen the salvation
Which you have prepared in the sight of every people;
A light to reveal you to the nations and the glory of your people Israel.
(Canticle of Simeon, Book of Common Worship, p.576)

This meditation is based on the Daily Lectionary Year 2 from the Book of Common Worship for the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) (1993).