The Elderly

And, behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the same man was just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was upon him. (Luke 2:25 KJV)

Was Simeon the only just and devout man around? Probably not. Remember Elisha? His words were: I, even I only, am left; and they seek my life, to take it away. (1 Kings 19:10b KJV), but he wasn’t the only one left. God had more:

Yet I have left me seven thousand in Israel, all the knees which have not bowed unto Baal, and every mouth which hath not kissed him. (1 Kings 19:18 KJV)

So Simeon, never spoken of before and never mentioned again, was both just and devout – and waiting for the consolation of Israel. Now there’s an interesting phrase. From what I’ve read, it is a phrase used for the Messiah. And Matthew’s Commentary on the Bible made an interesting observation that perhaps Simeon was not old, but simply was ready to meet his maker after holding Jesus:

Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word: For mine eyes have seen thy salvation, Which thou hast prepared before the face of all people; (Luke 2:29-31 KJV)

Maybe we think Simeon was old because of Anna?

And she was a widow of about fourscore and four years, which departed not from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day. And she coming in that instant gave thanks likewise unto the Lord, and spake of him to all them that looked for redemption in Jerusalem. (Luke 2:37-38 KJV)

So it’s easy to picture an elderly man and an elderly woman recognizing the child, isn’t it?

Take it from an elderly woman – recognizing Him does take spending time with the Lord and His word. Read it over and over again, coming to that time in prayer. You never know to whom He will speak, but it’s usually to those seeking Him.

I know, I know – Paul wasn’t. But that’s a whole ‘nother story!!

"Presentation at the Temple", by Rembrandt (Wiki Commons)