Text: Luke 2:21—38

Introduction:

• Illustration: Researchers used marshmallows to test the impulse restraint of 4 and found it revealed how they would respond to choices later in life.
• Impulse control lies close to the core of human sinfulness.
• How good are you at waiting?
• God makes us wait in order to develop maturity.
• Illustration: Daniel Goleman's book Emotional Intelligence connects the ability to wait with effective living.
• God has devised innumerable marshmallow tests of his people.

Abraham and Sarah

Israel in Egypt

Israel wandering in the desert

• Simeon's wait for the consolation of Israel shows us what it takes to wait well.

• Simeon held the hope of humanity in his hands.
• Romans 8:24
• Jesus is the hope of salvation for everyone.
• Illustration: Marshall and Susan Shelley described their feelings over the deaths of two of their children.

We learn to wait by looking ahead to our ultimate salvation.

• Illustration: Marshall and Susan Shelley reflected upon the loss of their children in light of eternity.
• Waiting is not passive but requires a daily decision of trust.
• Simeon's prophecy shows that Jesus will be revealed to the hearts of everyone.
• Our hearts must be filled with the hope of Jesus.

Conclusion:

• To wait well, our hearts must be filled with hope that is focused on Jesus.