In Luke’s Gospel, chapter two, Joseph and Mary bring Jesus to the Temple in Jerusalem. That is where they meet Holy Simeon.

The holy man had waited patiently for the Lord to grant him a request: he wanted to live to see the Messiah, the Savior of the world. But he did not know who that would be, or when and if his prayer would be fulfilled.

The young couple from Nazareth approached him with their baby. He looked into the eyes of the Child and felt a burst of joy in his heart. His eyes glowed. He lifted Jesus into his arms, then held him up and prayed:

“Now, my God, I can die in peace. I have seen with my own eyes the world’s salvation. You have prepared this for all your people.”

Mary and Joseph looked at one another. They were silently amazed. Then the old man turned to Mary.

His eyes became sad as he said softly, “Your own soul will be pierced by the sword.” Mary did not understand what this meant, and she prayed to God for courage.

God had answered the prayer of Holy Simeon and he remained in joyful thanksgiving as the couple and their baby left.