THE OLD PEOPLE (LUKE 2:22-35)

REFLECTION Grace and peace be unto you in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. Today, we reflect on a theme that is often sidelined in our fast-paced, youth-driven world: “The Old People.” When we speak of “The Old People” in a biblical context, we are not merely discussing chronological age or physical frailty. We…

Jean-Paul Agidi

Jan 2, 2026

3–5 minutes

bible, faith, jesus, christmas, simeon

REFLECTION

Grace and peace be unto you in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. Today, we reflect on a theme that is often sidelined in our fast-paced, youth-driven world: “The Old People.” When we speak of “The Old People” in a biblical context, we are not merely discussing chronological age or physical frailty. We are talking about Legacy, Patience, and Spiritual Maturity. The word “Old” here signifies the “Ancient of Days” reflected in human form—those who have weathered the storms of life and remained anchored in faith. “People” reminds us of our communal identity; they are the roots that hold the tree of the Church upright. In our study of Luke 2:22-35, we encounter Simeon, a man whose life was defined by a long-standing promise and a heart tuned to the Holy Spirit. From his encounter with the infant Christ, we will explore two vital lessons: The Power of Expectant Patience and The Clarity of Spiritual Vision.

Introduction

The Power of Expectant Patience

The first lesson “The Old People” teach us is the virtue of waiting on the Lord with unwavering hope. In Luke 2:25, we are introduced to Simeon, described as “righteous and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was on him.” Simeon was an old man who had spent decades watching the horizon for a Messiah that many had forgotten was even coming. While the younger generation may have been preoccupied with political revolts or daily commerce, Simeon remained in the Temple, anchored by a personal promise from God. This teaches us that ageing in the Lord is not a process of slowing down, but a process of deepening one’s focus. Consider the practical example of a grandmother who prays daily for a wayward grandchild. Though years pass and her strength fades, her “old age” is her greatest asset because it is seasoned with the discipline of prayer. As Isaiah 40:31 declares, “But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” Simeon proves that “The Old People” are the spiritual backbone of the faith because they have the stamina to wait when everyone else gives up.

The Clarity of Spiritual Vision

Secondly, “The Old People” possess a unique clarity of vision that allows them to see God’s hand where others see only the ordinary. When Mary and Joseph brought Jesus into the Temple, he looked like any other infant. Yet, Simeon, guided by the Spirit, recognised the salvation of the world. He took the child in his arms and proclaimed in Luke 2:30-32, “For my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the sight of all nations: a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of your people Israel.” This is the “Simeon Anointing”—the ability to look past the physical and perceive the divine purpose. In our modern lives, we often rush toward the “new” and the “trendy,” but we need the perspective of the elderly to help us discern what is eternal. For example, in a church meeting, a young leader might focus on technology or numbers, but an “old” saint might sense a lack of peace or a need for deeper repentance. They see the “Light” because they have spent a lifetime walking in it. Psalm 92:14 reminds us that “They will still bear fruit in old age, they will stay fresh and green,” specifically because their spiritual eyes remain sharp even as their physical eyes grow dim.

Conclusion

In summary, “The Old People” are not relics of the past; they are the watchmen of our present and the architects of our future. Through Simeon, we see that a life dedicated to God results in Expectant Patience—the ability to wait on God’s timing—and Spiritual Vision—the ability to recognise God’s presence in the everyday. These lessons are crucial because they bridge the gap between generations, ensuring that the fire of the Gospel is passed down with wisdom and integrity. Let us honour the elderly among us, for they carry the “Consolation of Israel” in their hearts and the light of revelation in their eyes. May we strive to emulate their devotion so that we, too, may one day say, “Lord, my eyes have seen Your salvation.”

Prayer

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of “The Old People” in our families and our congregations. We thank You for the Simeons and the Annas who have paved the way with their prayers and their perseverance. Lord, grant us the patience to wait for Your promises and the spiritual eyes to see Your work in our lives. Strengthen our elders, fill them with Your Spirit, and help us to honour the legacy they carry. May we all grow in righteousness and devotion until we see You face to face. In the mighty name of Jesus Christ, we pray. Amen.