A young married couple stood before me in the line, and I couldn't help but notice their troubled expressions. I inquired, "Is everything alright?" The woman replied, "We had a water pipe break under the sink in our apartment, and while we slept last night, everything was flooded. It was quite a shock to step out of bed into dirty water. I rushed to lift the Christmas tree onto the couch. Cleaning up will be a time-consuming task."
Her hope in the face of this problem reflects a hope that you might share as well. It could be hope in the midst of grief over a loved one's passing or any other challenge life presents. It's a time for hope, and when we ask God, He fills our hearts with hope. Think of the example of old Simeon, waiting in hope in the temple. The Holy Spirit had revealed to him that the Messiah, the Hope of Israel, would come that very day.
As Simeon stood there, Jesus, held in the arms of His mother Mary, approached. After offering a beautiful prayer of gratitude, old Simeon declared, "Now I can depart in Peace, for I have seen the Lord's arrival!" There's no greater satisfaction than placing your hope in Jesus. Regardless of the circumstances you face, the challenges that come your way, or the needs of your family, put your hope in Jesus.
So, how do you place your hope in Jesus? Follow Simeon's example. Trust Jesus, and be open to God's surprising way of working things out in your life. Christmas reminds us that God has given us His best, His Son, Jesus the Messiah. In ancient times, people placed their hope in Him and were never disappointed. God's love for you will never disappoint you.
May these words resonate with the hope and faith you seek, Rev. Walker.
25 Now there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon; this man was righteous and devout, looking forward to the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit rested on him. 26 It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Messiah. 27 Guided by the Spirit, Simeon came into the temple, and when the parents brought in the child Jesus to do for him what was customary under the law, 28 Simeon took him in his arms and praised God, saying,
29 “Master, now you are dismissing your servant in Peace, according to your word, 30 for my eyes have seen your salvation, 31 which you have prepared in the presence of all peoples, 32 a light for revelation to the gentiles and for glory to your people Israel.” Luke 2:25-32
