Name: Jonathan Baker
Which Service do you attend: All 3 services!
Word: Annunciation
Scripture: Luke 2:28–29: “Simeon took him in his arms and praised God, saying: ‘Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you may now dismiss your servant in peace.’”
The word Annunciation means “announcement.” It’s most often associated with the angel Gabriel’s announcement to Mary that she would bear the Son of God. But in Luke 2, we see another kind of annunciation — not by an angel, but by a faithful servant. Simeon takes the Christ Child in his arms and announces to the world that God’s promise has come true.
For years, Simeon had waited for this moment. The Holy Spirit had revealed to him that he would not die before seeing the Messiah. When he finally beholds Jesus, Simeon’s announcement is not just to those around him but to heaven itself: “My eyes have seen your salvation.” His words echo through time as a proclamation that God’s promises are sure and fulfilled in Christ.
The Annunciation reminds us that faith is not only hearing God’s promise but also declaring it when it is fulfilled. Each believer is called to be an announcer — to bear witness that God has come near, that salvation is here, and that hope is not in vain.
The last six months have been filled with challenges for the Baker family. Our son, Matthew, was diagnosed with stage 4 metastatic cancer and we have spent weeks in California where they live trying to help. When you hear that your child is dying, or any other challenge that rocks your foundation, it is so important to be surrounded by people who continue to “announce” that Christ is more than sufficient! Every email or text we received from friends and family across the world was filled with promises of prayer and, even more importantly, stories about how the Lord sustained you and your loved ones in times of need. You have proclaimed Emmanuel – God with us! You have helped carry Matthew and our whole family through this challenging time. How beautiful is the Body of Christ, the people of God, when we are there for one another.
Daily Prayer: Lord, open our eyes to see Your promises fulfilled in our lives. Like Simeon, may our lips announce Your salvation with joy and peace. Let our hearts and lives echo the good news: Christ has come, and all is well. Amen.
Action: Who do you know that needs to be encouraged today by the promises of our faith? Pray for them…but then text, call, email, or send a note to them. Share a story of how God was there for you as you announce the Good News – Christ is with us!
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