Jay Mijares’ lesson on Sunday was about “The Believing Remnant”, taken from Luke 2:25-38. This story is about two devout elders, Simeon and Anna, and their faith. At this point, Israel had been conqu...
Jay Mijares’ lesson on Sunday was about “The Believing Remnant”, taken from Luke 2:25-38. This story is about two devout elders, Simeon and Anna, and their faith. At this point, Israel had been conquered repeatedly and had much to grieve, but these two people shared some greatly needed hope.
Simeon isn’t even mentioned anywhere else in the Bible, but it’s interesting to note that his name translates to ‘hearing’, ‘hearkening’ or ‘God has heard’. God revealed to Simeon that he would not die until he had seen Christ. It was this unwavering faith in what was to come that rooted Simeon’s devotion to God.
In Luke 2:29-32, Mary and Joseph brought Jesus to the temple where Simeon held him and blessed God, saying,"Now Master, You are releasing Your slave in peace, According to Your word. For my eyes have seen Your salvation, which You prepared in the presence of all peoples, a Light for revelation to the Gentiles, and for the glory of Your people Israel." At last, there is hope for Israel!
Anna was an elderly, respected woman who spent her time in the temple worshiping and praying. She was also there when the baby Jesus was brought to the temple and, like Simeon, she praised and gave thanks to God. Knowing that all the people desperately needed hope, she (Luke 2:38) “...continued to speak of Him to all who were looking for the redemption and deliverance of Jerusalem.”
There are five lessons to learn from Anna (and from Simeon). 1. She studied the Word of God. 2. She never lost hope. 3. She never stopped worshiping. 4. She knew Jesus was the Savior and gave thanks. 5. She witnessed to others.
Finally, Jay gave us a few questions to ponder as we go about our daily lives:
Are you being led by the Holy Spirit or are you being led by your own desires?
Where do you find consolation in this world?
Is Jesus the foundation of your life or is He a stumbling stone?
Are you willing to surrender?
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