Denver Seminary

“A man in Jerusalem called Simeon, who was righteous and devout . . . said: ‘Sovereign Lord . . . , you may now dismiss your servant in peace. My eyes have seen your salvation . . . .’ There was also a prophetess, Anna . . . 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.”  

Luke 2:29-31, 36-38

What begins as an ordinary day for Simeon and Anna turns into an extraordinary one. As usual, Simeon rises up early and prepares to spend the day serving God. Led by the Spirit, Simeon makes his way to the Temple, and as he looks at Mary and Joseph entering the building to dedicate baby Jesus and to offer a sacrifice, his heart bursts with joy. Simeon lovingly welcomes them and declares, “My eyes have seen your salvation.”

Coincidentally, the prophetess Anna happens to walk by. Moved by the Spirit, she breaks into praises to God, proclaiming boldly that the long awaited Messiah has finally come, the one whose advent had been foretold by prophets long ago (Isaiah 9:6-7; Micah 5:2; Isaiah 53; Zech 12:10). A reader of the text can easily imagine Simeon and Anna, two very old people, dancing for joy in the Temple court!

This story reveals a number of interesting contrasts and insights: 

1. Simeon and Anna were advanced in years. Jesus was a little baby. Salvation is for the young and the old.
2. In the Mosaic Law, a woman who gives birth is required to offer a purification offering. In Luke, the Spirit orchestrates the events of the day. God gives the Law and the Spirit.
3. Simeon, a righteous and devout man receives confirmation that Jesus is the awaited Messiah. Prophetess Anna, a woman, receives the same message. Men and women are welcome in God’s presence.
4. Simeon makes his declaration inside the Temple. Anna proclaims the Good News outside. The gospel is for everyone inside and outside.

May we join in celebration with Simeon and Anna, proclaiming boldly that the Messiah has come to redeem men and women, young and old, rich and poor, strong and weak. A Merry Christmas to all who will welcome Him in their lives!

Helene Dallaire
Associate Professor of Old Testament