THEE WORD FOR THE WEEK

Simeon and Anna ~ Psalm 92:14 December 24-28, 2012

Monday Read Luke 2:25-26: The Promise to Simeon According to Lukes account, Joseph and Mary took Jesus to the Temple to present him to the Lord and to offer sacrifices. While they were there they met Simeon. Who was Simeon? How does Luke describe him? What promise had the Holy Spirit made to Simeon? What was it about Simeons life that caused him to be able to receive this promise? What was the last promise you received from the Holy Spirit? What is it about your life that causes you to be able to receive promises? Tuesday Read Luke 2:27-35: The Promise Fulfilled In these verses Luke reveals how God kept his promise to Simeon. What motivated Simeon to go into the temple courts? Does the Holy Spirit ever motivate you to do something? When did that last happen? What did Simeon predict about the work of Jesus? How would Jesus affect people? What would be the effect of the life of Jesus on his parents? How do you think that Mary and Joseph felt after this encounter? What caused this to be a meaningful experience for Simeon? What do you admire about Simeon? Wednesday Read Luke 2:36-37: Anna, the Prophetess It appears from Lukes account that Joseph and Mary met Anna just after their encounter with Simeon. Who was Anna? How does Luke describe her? How old was Anna? What is curious about her worship habits? Do you worship day and night? Do you know anyone like Anna? What words that describe Annas life would you like for someone to use to describe your life? What do you need to change in your life to make that happen? Thursday Read Luke 2:38: Anna Speaks Luke describes in this verse Joseph and Marys encounter with Anna. How is Annas prophecy like Simeons? What two things did Anna do? How often do you speak about Jesus to others? What do you admire about Anna? How will you express your thanks to God this week for sending Jesus? Friday Read Psalm 92:12-15: The Results of Righteous Living Recall for a moment how Luke described Simeon and Anna. Simeon was righteous and devout. Anna worshipped day and night. The Psalmist describes in these verses the results of this kind of right living. What promises are made to the righteous? What does it mean to flourish and bear fruit? Can one bear fruit and stay fresh and green even in old age? What is the common belief about old age? What will you do this week to stay fresh and green?