Luke 2:36-38

Not only did Simeon have words about the baby Jesus, but Anna, the prophet, did as well. “There are women prophets?” you might ask. I am not one to argue with the Scriptures — Luke calls her one. People can become so hung up on titles, especially in the church. Your gift makes room for you.

Notice that Anna came along just as Simeon was talking with Mary and Joseph. Another coincidence? I think not. And she wasn’t quiet about it either. Scripture says she was speaking to everyone about Him — everyone who had been waiting expectantly for God to rescue Israel. Isn’t that what we are supposed to be doing as well — sharing the Good News?

I am sure Mary and Joseph marveled at all of God’s confirmations — that the baby they were privileged to call their own was indeed the Savior of the world. What a responsibility!

We need to remember that we know the story from beginning to end. Mary and Joseph had no such written account to show them where they were going or what lay ahead, except for these brief encounters with various people. God has a way of telling us just what we need to know to get us moving in a certain direction. The rest unfolds as we take each step. Every step requires faith, and we continue doing what God has put before us until He shows us otherwise.

The next encounter we read about is the visit from the wise men. Often, in the Christmas story, their visit is portrayed as happening at the same time as Jesus’ birth, when in fact they likely did not arrive until about two years later.

More on that tomorrow…