2000-years ago dwelt in Jerusalem an elderly man, Simeon, who was waiting for the consolation of Israel as he served God in the Temple. Another aged Israelite waiting for Israel’s redemption prayed every day in that same Temple. Her name was Anna.

They had seen so much pain in their day. God’s people, the Jews, oppressed by yet another vast military power, this time Rome. For centuries the stories of humiliation and suffering had been piling up.

Israel was gloriously called to bring the blessings of Abraham to the whole earth as part of God’s master plan to save humanity. But the Israel Simeon and Anna knew was beleaguered and oppressed. Few had memories of triumph; only enslavement.

Yet the pain of this tragedy shaped a singular longing in many a Jews’ heart for the coming of the Messiah.

And come he did. With power, glory, and hope.