CONNECTING POINT: The Gift You've Always Wanted

Think of a time in life when you wanted a certain gift. Maybe you expected something specific in return or had to wait for a long period of time? What about a time when you never received what you wanted? Many of us have had these experiences. It’s my viewpoint that all the marketing of Christmas in our society has shaped an unbalanced mindset, targeting the constant need for self-gratification. Could we be a bit too self-centered today? Possibly. Now, I’m not a Scrooge and believe that gift-giving has its place, being generous is at the heart of being a Christian. However, we need to be careful in missing the entire premise of Christmas; Jesus came to give us eternal life and redeem us from our sins.

The setting in Luke chapter 2 represents decades of unmet longing, the Jewish people hoped for the Messiah to arrive. Luke also introduces us to other special eyewitnesses of the promised Messiah, Simeon, and Anna. Both Simeon and Anna operated in the gift of prophecy regarding Jesus. In Simeon’s words, “For my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the sight of all nations: a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of your people Israel,” (Luke 2:30-32). Be cautious in getting hung up on the title of “prophet” and missing the entire purpose of the message given by the Holy Spirit; Jesus came to change the entire world. Another principle we can treasure includes salvation through Jesus is a gift intended for all. Surprisingly this concept was difficult for many Jews to accept, Simeon continued, “This child is destined to cause the falling and rising of many in Israel,” (vs. 34). Indicating that many Jews would reject Jesus as the Messiah and that they did. Is it

possible that those Jews who rejected Jesus were a bit too self-centered? The Gospel is for everyone!

For those in Christ, salvation is a privilege or a gift. However, that doesn’t mean as “saved” people we live above others and peer down from our Christian clubhouses. Doing so is foolish pride. Jesus is the light of the world, to be shared with anyone who comes across our path.

Considering Anna’s life and background, the Bible reveals that she was a widow for many years while remaining faithful in her spiritual practices of worship and desire to see the Messiah. That special day arrived as Jesus was presented in the temple. Do you suppose that for those 84 years, Anna occasionally wrestled with doubt or discomfort? Most likely. Popular logic says that we should get what we want; I’m sorry that isn’t true. At times God’s ways are much different than our own. Often God’s timing may include some waiting, Anna’s character epitomizes this hard-felt truth.

Do you have unrealistic expectations of God or others? I sure have. Moments like these are when our faith is tested the most. Take a moment and reflect on some of your unmet longings. What is God trying to teach you?

We see throughout the Bible over and over how God works in and through the lives of ordinary, humble, everyday people such as Simeon and Anna. In fact, God is always working even in our waiting.