12-29-13 The Ones Who Were Listening

17 When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, 18 and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. 19 But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. 20 The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told. (Luke 2:17-20)

38 Coming up to them at that very moment, she gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who were looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem.  (Luke 2:38)

Thoughts: The shepherds spoke to all about finding the baby Jesus, and what the angel said.  Simeon and Anna also spoke about the baby Jesus as a Messiah and Redeemer.
     Let's think for a minute about those who heard.  The people of Bethlehem marveled and were amazed.  Mary pondered these things in her heart, and the Bible says that she and Joseph marveled at what was being said by Simeon in the Temple.  It does not say how the people reacted to Anna's words of hope, but it says that she only spoke to those who  were looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem.  In other words, Anna had been talking about God coming and saving the people to a group before.  They were teachable and she knew they had ears to hear.  When we open our ears to God, and are looking for Him to come faithfully and in keeping with what He has said before, then God comes to us.  

Prayer: Help me to listen when others bring good news of God to me.  Let me be numbered among those who are faithful to your Word and commands-- even we are only a remnant-- and help me to be sensitive enough to hear and respond when you come to me.