The Wisdom of the Aged
Now there was a man in Jerusalem called Simeon, who was righteous and devout. He was waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not die before he had seen the Lord's Christ. Moved by the Spirit, he went into the temple courts. When the parents brought in the child Jesus to do for him what the custom of the Law required, Simeon took him in his arms and praised God, saying: “Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you now dismiss your servant in peace. For my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the sight of all people, a light for revelation to the Gentiles and for glory to your people Israel.” The child's father and mother marveled at what was said about him. Then Simeon blessed them and said to Mary, his mother: “This child is destined to cause the falling and rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be spoken against, so that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your own soul too.” There was also a prophetess, Anna, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was very old; she had lived with her husband seven years after her marriage, and then was a widow until she was eightyfour. She never left the temple but worshiped night and day, fasting and praying. Coming up to them at that very moment, she gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who were looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem. (Luke 2:25-38 NIV)
Isn't the story of Simeon and Anna wonderful? Here are these two marvelous old people, both very dedicated to God, both ardent in their continuing worship at the temple, both still hopeful that they will be given the privilege of seeing the Messiah before they die. And now God has granted their prayers. Can you imagine the excitement and joy that they felt? Can't you just see old Simeon, his aged eyes glowing with joy as he holds the Christ Child in his arms? Can't you feel the power of the Holy Spirit in this old man as he prophesies about this tiny baby?
Both Simeon and Anna were very old. We aren't given Simeon's age, but Anna was eighty-four. Most likely, Simeon was at least her age or older. Imagine the awe that was felt by all of those who witnessed this scene. Here were two aged people who were well respected because of their age. Because of their age, their wisdom was revered. They had lived long lives. They knew many things, had experienced many things, had learned many things. Their words were to be respected, cherished and remembered.
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How the world has changed. Today, youth is important. The younger the leader, the better. Fresh ideas, youthful enthusiasm, youthful energy... these are the things that are sought in our culture, in our companies, in our churches. And the old are turned out to pasture, sent to retirement villages with a watch and a pat on the back. Even our churches form senior adult groups - more often than not, a place where the aged can be with their cronies and not get in the way of our hurry-up world.
But the aged are wise. They've spent many, many years gaining their wisdom. No longer shackled by the pretenses of youth, they are open and honest and unafraid. Their thousands of memories are worth learning about.
How much time do you spend with the elderly members of your congregation? When was the last time you invited an older person to your home for coffee or dropped by to visit him or her? How much time have you spent visiting with the people at a nearby nursing home? How many people over the age of 60 do you know? And how many would you call friends? Did you ever stop to think about how much you could learn from someone who has lived a lifetime longer than yours? Make getting to know at least one senior adult a priority in the coming year. You can be a blessing to each other.
From Newsong Ministries
Used with permission.
