Holy Simeon’s story beautifully illustrates the rewards of having patience and trust in the Lord. Simeon, known for his piety and unyielding devotion to God, lived during the time of Jesus’ birth. Luke tells us that Simeon had been blessed with a special promise from the Holy Spirit — that he would not die until his eyes had rested upon the Messiah of Israel. As time went on, he eagerly anticipated that pledged encounter.

Joseph and Mary were devout Jews, conscientious about following the Mosaic Law. According to the regulations written out in Leviticus, Mary waited 40 days after the birth of Jesus and then with Joseph brought the baby to be presented at the Temple in Jerusalem in order to consecrate him to the Lord. Because they were not of great wealth, Mary and Joseph brought two turtledoves (or perhaps pigeons) instead of a yearling lamb as an offering.

Simeon was at the Temple when Jesus, Mary and Joseph arrived. When he met the Holy Family, he gathered the baby Jesus into his arms and somehow knew that this was the One he’d been waiting for. The Holy Spirit stirred his soul, confirming to him that the promise was at that moment being fulfilled. Without a doubt, he was holding Israel’s redeemer.

Simeon, overcome with wonder and awe, fell into heartfelt prayer, expressing a certain readiness for death now that he had indeed seen the Savior of the world. Simeon also included a prophecy: this Savior would be a glory for Israel as well as a light for the Gentiles, thereby opening the doors of salvation to all people.

Mary and Joseph were astonished at Simeon’s prayer. As the holy man blessed the couple, he prophesied about future upheavals for Israel and future sorrows for Mary as the mother of Jesus.

 

Three Days with Holy Simeon

The Church recognizes this spirit-filled man, Holy Simeon (as well as St. Anna the Prophetess!) on Feb. 3 — creating a nice link to the Feast of the Presentation just one day before. Due to his age and readiness to go to heaven, those with a terminal illness and the elderly might want to claim him as their patron saint. Contemplating his story might prompt a better focus on God as life begins to wind down. Reading, pondering, and maybe jotting down a few thoughts on the passages below can help to get to know Holy Simeon better. If desired, spend three days with this Presentation saint and ask him for his prayerful intercession.

• Day 1) Luke 2:22–32
• Day 2) Luke 2:33–35
• Day 3) Leviticus 12:6–8