Study Desk

When his time of service was finished, he went home.

He will be great. People will call him the Son of the Most High God, and the Lord God will make him king like his ancestor David.

He will rule over the people of Jacob forever; his kingdom will never end."

I am not important, but he has shown his care for me, his lowly servant. From now until the end of time, people will remember how much God blessed me.

Yes, the Powerful One has done great things for me. His name is very holy.

He reached out his arm and showed his power. He scattered those who are proud and think great things about themselves.

God has helped Israel—the people he chose to serve him. He did not forget his promise to give us his mercy.

He has done what he promised to our ancestors, to Abraham and his children forever."

When the baby was eight days old, they came to circumcise him. They wanted to name him Zechariah because this was his father's name.

But his mother said, "No, he will be named John."

Then they made signs to his father, "What would you like to name him?"

Zechariah asked for something to write on. Then he wrote, "His name is John." Everyone was surprised.

"Praise to the Lord God of Israel. He has come to help his people and has given them freedom.

He has given us a powerful Savior from the family of his servant David.

This is what he promised through his holy prophets long ago.

God said he would show mercy to our fathers, and he remembered his holy agreement.

You will make his people understand that they will be saved by having their sins forgiven.

Simeon took the baby in his arms and thanked God:

When the festival was over, they went home, but Jesus stayed in Jerusalem. His parents did not know about it.

Everyone who heard him was amazed at his understanding and wise answers.