Waiting Is Hard

At Christmas, there’s always that one family member who takes forever to open their gifts. You know the one. They untie each ribbon delicately, peel off each piece of tape strategically, and carefully unfold the wrapping paper. Meanwhile, the rest of us are thinking, “Just open it already! (Waiting is hard.)

Learning from Simeon: Why Waiting Is Hard but Worth It

Simeon knew what it meant to wait. He wasn’t just waiting for Christmas morning; he was waiting for something far greater: The fulfillment of God’s promise! The Holy Spirit had revealed to Simeon that he wouldn’t die until he had seen the Messiah.

Luke tells his story:

“Now there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon, and this man was righteous and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ.” (Luke 2:25-26, ESV)

When Mary and Joseph brought baby Jesus to the temple, Simeon recognized Him immediately. Taking Jesus in his arms, Simeon praised God:

“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.” (Luke 2:29-32, ESV)

Two Keys to Waiting Well

How did Simeon remain patient and faithful for so many years? Two character traits stand out: righteousness and devotion.

1. Righteousness: The Foundation for Patience

Simeon was described as righteous. He was a man who lived justly in the eyes of God. He followed the Mosaic Law and maintained a short record of wrongs, repenting and offering sacrifices when necessary. Simeon’s faithfulness to these tangible acts of obedience helped him wait expectantly for God’s promise.

2. Devotion: Staying Faithful While Waiting Is Hard

Simeon was also devout, reverencing God with his whole heart. His relationship with the Father wasn’t just about performing rituals; it was about love and commitment. This deep devotion allowed Simeon to stay patient and hopeful. He trusted God’s timing, even when the waiting was long.

What About Us? Why Waiting Is Harder Today

Here’s the good news: we’re in an even better position than Simeon. We live after Jesus’ resurrection and have the Holy Spirit dwelling within us. Because of Christ’s work on the cross, we’ve been made eternally righteous in God’s eyes.

That means we can wait expectantly for His return, confident in our relationship with Him.

A Christmas Challenge to Help When Waiting Is Hard

During this busy season, it’s easy to fill our schedules with work, social events, and to-do lists. But what if we choose to prioritize time with God? A daily devotional time can sustain us, not just through the Christmas season, but as we wait for Christ’s return.

Reading His Word, praying, and listening for His voice will keep us patient, faithful, and expectant.

A Prayer for Patience When Waiting Is Hard

Here’s a prayer to guide us this week:

“Lord, prepare me for Christmas by reminding me of Your promises. Where do I need to be more patient and faithful? Teach me to wait expectantly for You.”

Dive Deeper Into this Biblical Account

• Learn more about Simeon’s story in Luke 2:25-35.

Join the Conversation; Share Your Thoughts

• How are you at waiting?
• What helps you stay patient during the Christmas season?
• Is there a spiritual component to your waiting?