Sunday 30 March 2025
And the child’s father and mother were amazed at what was being said about him. (v. 33)
Background
Earlier in this chapter of Luke's Gospel we read that Mary and Joseph take the infant Jesus to the Temple in Jerusalem, where they meet Simeon. The encounter in the Temple between the young family and the elderly prophet must rank as one of the most poignant encounters in history, and it certainly set the tone for the ministry of Jesus.
Simeon had received a promise that he would not die until he had seen the Messiah, and having seen and held Jesus, he was convinced: “…my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the presence of all peoples, a light for revelation to the Gentiles and for glory to your people Israel.” (Luke 2:30-32)
All of this doubtless gave Mary plenty to reflect on. Luke presents her as someone who reflected deeply on what happened, and on what the future would hold. Luke tells us following her earlier encounter with the angel that “Mary treasured all these words and pondered them in her heart.” (Luke 2:19)
Of course it’s natural that parents are preoccupied with what the future holds for their children. We say things like: “I just hope they’ll be happy and healthy.” But Simeon’s words don’t promise the undiluted happiness Mary may have wished for her son. That people would rise and fall, and mention of opposition didn’t bode well, and "a sword will pierce your own soul" clearly anticipates the pain and anguish that Mary will experience at Jesus' death.
Simeon’s prophetic words represent the reality for many people. Whether or not we are parents, we all have people in our lives whom we hold dear, and we long for the best for them. Jesus too was loved in this way. However, the life of Jesus demonstrates that where life is lived in true mercy and compassion – in God’s will – opposition, pain and heartache will follow. Ultimately though, this is the way of salvation and our hope is in this child who is the saviour of the world.
To Ponder:
- Today is Mothering Sunday. It was traditionally a day when those in domestic service were permitted to return home to their families. It was a chance to reconnect with their roots and take stock. Where is home for you, and what are your expectations of what you find there?
- When Mothering Sunday was over, the journey would be made back to the person's place of work. What are your thoughts as you leave home and set out on the next stage of your life? Where is God guiding you, and what opportunities and risks does the journey present?
Prayer
Loving God, we bring our hopes and dreams, our fears and anxieties, for our future and and for the futures of those we love. We offer them to you and seek your peace and guidance. May we hear your words of hope and of challenge and reflect on them as we seek to follow you. Amen.
Bible notes author: Bob Bartindale
Bob Bartindale is a local preacher in the Bramhall & Wythenshawe Circuit near Manchester. He currently serves as the Officer for Local Preachers and Worship Leaders in the Methodist Connexional Team.