Reflection on Luke 2:22-35 - Endless Hope - Sonia Rodrigues - 29 Dec 2021

As we prepare to enter a brand new year, we might contemplate on some aspects in life to let go of and some to retain. There is one however we should hold on to resolutely. Gospel – Luke 2:22-35 (Please refer to your Bible) Reflection In the movies we usually have a main character and a person who plays a guest appearance. The latter normally has a brief role to play but at times the impact of that role is felt right through the movie, sometimes even after that. Simeon plays such a role in the Gospel story. He isn’t mentioned anywhere else except in today's passage, but his life is so inspiring that it leaves an indelible impact. Simeon's prophecy is something Mary carries in her heart all her life until it is fulfilled and the sword truly pierces her heart as she sees her son crucified on the cross. In His death Jesus fell for us, but then He rose up again to help us rise and live forever. Also in today’s Gospel, it is fascinating to find three consecutive verses mentioning the Holy Spirit that shows how powerfully He works in our lives. Let’s examine them closely. Verse 25 - The Holy Spirit was said to be upon Simeon, signifying he was an anointed man blessed with the gifts of the Holy Spirit. That gave him the patience and endurance to wait for God’s promises to be fulfilled in his life, despite many doubts that may have arisen. It will do the same for us, if we only believe. Verse 26 - The Holy Spirit revealed to him that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Messiah. He believed this revelation and steadfastly held onto it with faith. How amazing it is to be able to hold on to the light when surrounded by darkness! Verse 27 - The Holy Spirit guided him to come into the temple at the exact moment when Jesus and his parents were there. It wasn’t a coincidence but a divine direction. This tells us how important it is to be alert and follow the voice of the Holy Spirit who always directs our words and actions. It is up to us to be faithful and obedient to His voice. My uncle Gladson Anchan says ‘Christ may delay coming to help us during our times of distress, but it is simply so that our faith may be tested and strengthened. His purpose is also that our prayers will be more powerful and our desire for deliverance will be greater, so that when deliverance finally comes, we will appreciate it more fully.’ That could describe Simeon’s joy and gratitude when he finally held the Saviour of the world in his hands. His devotion, faithfulness and patience over the years were beautifully rewarded in that moment. As the year draws to a close, perhaps we too are still waiting, perhaps there are dreams in our hearts that are still unfulfilled, problems we are still struggling with and battles we are still fighting. Maybe there are prayers that remain unanswered and we are on the verge of giving up. We are reminded today to hold on firmly with faith in the word of God that never fails. We are also guided to call upon the Holy Spirit for the patience and strength we need to hold on with unwavering faith (See Numbers 23:19, Joshua 21:45, Isaiah 14:24, 55:11, 1 Corinthians 15:1-2, 1 Timothy 4:10, Hebrews 3:14, 10:23, 11:1, 2 Peter 3:9) Let the year end, but let our faith and hope in Him be endless. Let us pray: Dear Lord, thank you for the gift of perseverance that teaches us to never give up. Thank you for your word and the Holy Spirit for being our source of strength and courage as we persist in our faith. Help us to hold on and believe that what you have promised you will fulfill. We ask all of this in the mighty holy and precious name of Jesus - Amen. Wish you a grace-filled, peaceful, safe and Happy New Year! God bless you! #reflectonthis #gospelreflections #evangelinediaries #reflecthopebelieve #simplereminders #lifelessons #keepthefaith #simplefaith #faith #littlefaith #SR #WordofGod #endlesshope #HappyNewYear #gratitude #MerryChristmas #patience #perseverance #service #beablessing #love #selflesslove #sharethelove #spreadlove #giftoflove #giftoflight #giftofhope #hope #peace #HolySpirit #lightoflife #unwaveringfaith #steadfastfaith #holdontohope #persistence #nevergiveup #donotletgo #donotgiveup #NewYearResolutions #2022 Video Audio Credit: Mr. Clive Vincent