Gathering 211: “They were there: Anna and Simeon” // Rev. Tony Minear, Ph.D.

Anna and Simeon. Two retirees sitting in the Temple just resting their bones. Because isn't that what you do after you've spent a lifetime prophesizing and, in Anna's case, proselytizing? Two faithful and seasoned Jews who had waited all their lives for the Messiah. Why else get up in the morning? But did either Anna or Simeon fit that stereotype? In particular, Anna was an 84-year-old widow and prophetess who never left the Temple. She prayed and fasted day and night. When she saw Jesus, she gave thanks to God. That sounds purposeful and counter to the "golden years" of golfing and fishing, right? 

The concept of retirement is a new phenomenon of the last 100 years or so. If your life was defined by your occupation, what do you do when you can no longer work? Did it ever occur to Anna that Jesus' presence in the Temple that day would be the beginning of the end? Join us for the third Sunday in Advent, as we continue our look at four key figures in the life of Jesus in our worship sermon series: "They were there..." Today, Pastor Tony Minear, Ph.D. explores Anna and Simeon’s role and the Japanese concept of “ikigai” (a reason for living). Listen and discover two possible courses of action to take as you age. What is the sustainability of your ikigai? Like Anna, will your ikigai and legacy remain after you have gone? 

Recorded live at Beatitudes Church in Phoenix, AZ on 12/12/21 

Preaching: Rev. Tony Minear, Ph.D. 

Scripture: Luke 2:36-38 

Scripture Reader: Janelle Tapphorn

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