Perfect Timing...

Waiting can be hard. During the busyness of life—especially around Christmas—it can feel like things are spinning out of control. But as the story of Simeon in Luke 2:21–39 reminds us, God’s timing is always perfect. Simeon waited his entire life to see the Messiah, clinging to a promise from the Holy Spirit. And at the perfect moment, God fulfilled His word. This story teaches us that while we may be waiting, God is always working.

Simeon’s faithfulness in waiting highlights the wisdom of trusting God’s ways. Even when life feels chaotic or confusing, God sees the bigger picture. The Christmas story itself, from the birth of Jesus to Simeon’s encounter with the Savior, is a testament to God orchestrating events for His purposes. It’s a reminder that His timing is never early, never late, but always right on time.

Through Simeon, we see how faithfulness to God’s leading brings fruitfulness in our lives. God is already pouring out His blessings; when we follow Him, we align ourselves to receive them. Simeon lived in expectancy, daily seeking God’s promises, and his faith was rewarded when he held the Messiah in his arms. This is a powerful reminder that waiting on God is never wasted.

The real question, though, is how we respond to Jesus. Like Simeon, do we live with expectant faith? Or do we try to control our lives, ignoring the plans God is weaving behind the scenes? This Christmas, we’re invited to let go of our need for control and trust in God’s perfect plan. His timing may not match ours, but it is always for our good and His glory.

The story of Jesus’ arrival reminds us that God’s plans are always bigger than we can imagine. From the silent years between the Old and New Testaments to the quiet night of Christ’s birth, God was preparing the world for the greatest gift—salvation through Jesus. Simeon’s joy in seeing the Savior reminds us to find wonder in God’s timing and faithfulness.

This season, we’re called to reflect on the gift of time. Are we clinging to our own schedules, or are we allowing God to direct our steps? By holding our plans loosely and trusting in God’s sovereignty, we can experience the peace and joy that only He can provide. As we celebrate Christmas, let’s remember: God’s perfect plans unfold in His perfect time.

God’s timing turns waiting into wonder. Just as Simeon saw God’s faithfulness, we too can trust Him to fulfill His promises in our lives.

- Adapted from the sermon preached at our Walloon Lake campus on 12/8/24.