Listening for the Spirit

Of all the babies presented to Simeon for purification, the baby Jesus stood out. Simeon no sooner touched the child then he declared, “This is the one, the Messiah, the one who will turn the world upside down.”

All of Simeon’s news was not good, though. Jesus would be spoken against, people’s true hearts would be revealed, and Mary’s own heart would be pierced by what would happen. Anna, too, spoke of this child as the one who will redeem Israel.

How did they know?

Only the Holy Spirit could have told them. Notice how they listened long and patiently to God’s word. They spoke with God in all they did, and they listened faithfully.

Are you speaking with God in all you do? Are you listening for the Holy Spirit to speak back to you? God waits so patiently for us to hear the Holy Spirit speaking, sometimes even shouting, in our hearts, minds and bodies.

God of mystery and surprise, you speak even to us. Open our ears, minds and hearts to receive your words, whether they are words of comfort, challenge, rebuke or affirmation. Give us the courage to hear and obey your loving counsel. Amen. — SB

Contributed by Listening for the Spirit

Of all the babies presented to Simeon for purification, the baby Jesus stood out. Simeon no sooner touched the child then he declared, "This is the one, the Messiah, the one who will turn the world upside down." All of Simeon's news was not good, though. Jesus would be spoken against, people's true hearts would be revealed, and Mary's own heart would be pierced by what would happen. Anna, too, spoke of this child as the one who will redeem Israel. How did they know? Only the Holy Spirit could have told them. Notice how they listened long and patiently to God's word. They spoke with God in all they did, and they listened faithfully. Are you speaking with God in all you do? Are you listening for the Holy Spirit to speak back to you? God waits so patiently for us to hear the Holy Spirit speaking, sometimes even shouting, in our hearts, minds and bodies.
Eternity for Today