Two Old People

After a baby is born, families return to ordinary activities. One of the things our church does is offer a dedication service for the baby. It’s not a rite of the church, it has nothing to do with expectations for the baby, either. It’s a promise by the parents about how the child will be raised. It is a commitment by those who participate that they will help the parents, too.

Eight days after the birth of Mary’s baby, she and Joseph were in the Temple in Jerusalem. Her purification was accomplished and her first born son required a sacrifice.. They met two old people who looked to God for answers:

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)

Amazing! Simeon was waiting for the Messiah, the consolation of Israel. He was close to God and God allowed him to recognize this child:

Then took he him up in his arms, and blessed God, and said, 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; A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel. (Luke 2:28-32 KJV)

We aren’t told that Anna received word from God – just that:

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 2:38 KJV)

It could be as simple as being at the right place, at the right time and accepting the uniqueness of the moment.

The story of these two old people concerns only a few moments of the life of this child, but their names have not been forgotten for a couple of thousand years. I’ve read fiction where they were interwoven into stories preceding Christ’s birth, giving reason for their being at this place for such a time as this.

Where will we be when God is doing something special?

Are we close enough to Him to hear what He has in mind? Would we spend enough time in His house to be available when a special child comes through? Would we recognize that child as being part of God’s plans? Would we rejoice?

Several years ago a group of youth moved through our  church, dedicating their lives to His work. They are pastors or pastor’s wives now, in His service. Their choice was obvious by their words, their activities, their own dedication to His service. The church supported them.

We haven’t had such a group in the years since. Are they not there? Or do we not recognize them? Do we think it can’t happen again? Are we waiting for a group – and overlooking a single child that would blossom with support?

Why not reach out, take them in our arms and bless God for them. Why not make ourselves available to support them through the decisions they must make along the way.