The Joy of Quiet Faithfulness

Scripture – Luke 2:25-32: 25Now there was a man in Jerusalem called Simeon, who was righteous and devout. He was waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. 26It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not die before he had seen the Lord’s Christ. 27Moved by the Spirit, he went into the temple courts. When the parents brought in the child Jesus to do for him what the custom of the Law required, 28Simeon took him in his arms and praised God, saying: 29“Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you now dismiss your servant in peace. 30For my eyes have seen your salvation, 31which you have prepared in the sight of all people, 32a light for revelation to the Gentiles and for glory to your people Israel.”

Reflection: What a day for Simeon! He was a “righteous and devout“ man. That’s a pretty good reputation to have. Sometimes I lose sight of that. Even in the church we easily get caught up in accomplishments.

I don’t read many articles about righteous and devout people. I read about people who have started great ministries – people who have led a church to grow from a few people to thousands of people.

Now let me be clear. I don’t mean those folks are not righteous and devout. They could not lead any fruitful ministry without those qualities. It’s just that those qualities are not the ones usually lifted up. The focus is on the visible accomplishments.

My heroes are the pastors of small churches who get no acclaim as they faithfully serve Christ. As far as we can tell Simeon served quietly in the temple. On this particular day he received the greatest gift of his life. In many ways faithful service is its own reward. How will I be righteous and devout in that service? How will I serve today?