Waiting Well

As we continue looking at the story of Simeon in Luke 2, we get to the point where Simeon's patient expectations are met when Mary and Joseph bring baby Jesus to be dedicated in the Temple in accordance with Jewish law. And immediately, Simeon sees baby Jesus and picks him up and praises God with these words in verses 29-32, "Lord, now you are letting your servant depart in peace, according to your word; for my eyes have seen your salvation that you have prepared in the presence of all peoples, a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and for glory to your people Israel."

One could almost hear and feel Simeon's excitement, joy, and even relief as he picked up the 8-day old Son of God! What gives you reason to praise God? Or better yet, how do you respond after long periods of waiting? If we're honest, many of us at the very least think to ourselves "It’s about time!" I was recently at a gas station where cars were entering the pumps from multiple directions, and it was causing gridlock and a whole lot of frustration….I could tell by all the car horns going off (and they weren't being used to politely tell other cars to go ahead!)

This Christmas, rather than letting frustrations or impatience or varying levels of entitlement cause you to complain and grumble, find reasons to praise God. Praise Him in the valleys and on the mountain tops. Praise Him in the good times and the bad. Praise Him when you're overjoyed, and praise Him when you don't feel like it. Our brother Trey has the perfect response to a variety of circumstances that face him, and us, on a daily basis….."Praise God!"

Let's be like Trey (and Simeon), and Praise God!