Simeon and Anna praised and gave thanks to God for giving them the grace to witness consolation of Israel in their old age. They were devout worshippers who saw the long-awaited Messiah. Psalm 98:2 - The Lord hath made known his salvation: his righteousness hath he openly showed in the sight of the heathen. The followings are discussed: Jesus Dedicated to God; Song about Jesus the Saviour, and Thanksgiving for Redemption.
Jesus Dedicated to God: Mary's child was named as instructed by the angel of God who separately appeared to Mary and Joseph (Luke 1:26-38, Mathew 1:18-25). He was given the name JESUS when eight days were accomplished for circumcision. Joseph and Mary were obedient to God by carrying out His command.
Jesus was taken to Jerusalem to be presented to God in the temple, after forty days of his birth. According to the law of the Lord, a woman was considered ceremonially unclean after the birth of a child until the day of Purification (Leviticus 12:1-8). It took forty days if a baby was a boy, and eighty days if it was a girl for the mother to complete the time of uncleanness. And on the day of purification the mother would offer sacrifice to God (Number 18:15).
God demanded that firstborn animals and male children belonged to Him. While firstborn animals were sacrificed, firstborn male children were presented to Him and then bought back. The sacrifice for Mary's cleansing was offered as required. She presented Jesus to God and got him back with the sacrifice (Luke 2:22-24). The ceremony was designed to remind people that all life is a gift from God. Jesus earthly parents obediently served God and took responsibilities. God sends blessings with responsibilities. He has set forth His Word, living by it and teaching others demand responsibilities. Christians are under the grace, not the law, for greater responsibilities.
Song about Jesus the Saviour: At the presentation of Jesus to God in the temple, Simeon who was waiting for consolation of Israel took Jesus and began to sing spirit-inspired songs about him (Luke 2:25-32). The Holy Spirit had assured Simeon that he would see the Messiah before he died. Simeon was described as a righteous man, and one of the few people that were concerned about Israel. Consolation of Israel refers to the coming of Messiah and the beginning of messianic age. Simeon song revealed Jesus as the Saviour, the glory of Israel and the light of all nations.
Joseph and Mary were marvelled at Simeon's song because it buttressed what the angel had told them about Jesus in private. Simeon continued to declare that Jesus' work would bring about fall and rising again of many. His song revealed that not everyone would accept the Messiah. That those who accept him would rise (receive salvation and exaltation), while those who reject him would fall (receive judgement and condemnation). He also sang that Mary's heart would be pierced, meaning that Jesus' death would be sorrowful because it would pay the price of salvation.
Thanksgiving for Redemption: Anna was another person that saw the Messiah and witnessed consolation of Israel in her very old age. She entered the temple at the moment Simeon was speaking about Jesus. She worshipped God and gave thanks for sending Jesus for redemption of Israel (Luke 2:36-38). She also spread the good news to others. Both Simeon and Anna were inspired by the Spirit to speak about Jesus as the One God sent to bring about eternal relationship with His people.
After Joseph and Mary had completed all things stipulated by the law, they went back to their town (Luke 2:39-40). Their obedience portrayed them as just and humble people who loved God. They lived faithful life that impacted the world and promoted eternal values. Lesson texts: Luke 2:21-40.
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