Luke 2 – Simeon and Anna’s Wish List
God, you can now release your servant; release me in peace as you promised. With my own eyes I’ve seen your salvation; it’s now out in the open for everyone to see: A God-revealing light to the non-Jewish nations, and of glory for your people Israel.
Luke 2:29-32 The Message
And the child’s father and mother were amazed at what was being said about him. Then Simeon blessed them and said to his mother Mary, “This child is defined for the falling and the rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be opposed so that the inner thoughts of many will be revealed – and a sword will pierce your own soul too.”
Luke 2:33-35 New Revised Standard Version (NRSV)
There was also a prophet, Anna, the daughter of Penuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was very old; she had lived with her husband seven years after her marriage, and then was a widow until she was eighty-four. She never left the temple but worshiped night and day, fasting and praying. Coming up to them at that very moment, she gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who were looking forward to the reception of Jerusalem.
Luke 2:36-38 New International Version (NIV)
Love God with everything you’ve got. Love your neighbor as yourself.
Jones Paraphrase – Matthew 22:36-40, Mark 12:29-30, Luke 10:25-28