“For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, while we wait for the blessed hope — the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good.” Titus 2:11-14
I remember reading somewhere that most of our time in life is spent waiting on something — second only to our time spent sleeping. We wait in lines — long lines, for rides, for tickets, for a deal, for gas, for admission . . . even for a free chicken sandwich. And yet, we are satisfied with doing so. Why is that? I think it must be because there is purpose, a mission, the understanding that there will be something for me when it’s my turn.
Would I still wait if it took days, or months . . . or even years until my ticket was called? I’d certainly have to weigh the value against the worth of my wait. Some things are worth waiting for regardless of the time it takes.
A guy by the name of Simeon spent his life waiting for a promise to be fulfilled. Luke tells us about him and his waiting in the second chapter of his book. Promised by the Holy Spirit he would see the coming Christ before his death, he spent his life waiting . . . anticipating great things!
So moved, Simeon went and waited in the courtyard of the temple — and one day, without fanfare, the Christ child appeared in the arms of his mother, Mary by the side of Joseph. And as Simeon took the child in his arms, he knew God’s promise had been given to all people.
Luke tells us that Simeon was a righteous and devout man and keenly aware of the Holy Spirit in his life. While waiting, Simeon summed it up for all of us . . . submit, listen, trust and obey!
Lord Jesus, I eagerly await your return, but until that time give me patience as I wait upon other things I’ve placed at the foot of your cross. While I wait, may I submit every moment to you, listen to your tender voice, trust in the promises of your Spirit and live in obedience. For I know the value of which I wait is worth every minute!
“Trust in the Lord with all you heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.” Proverbs 3:5-6