In this special Advent edition of Character Study, Jon Fortt and David Tieche pause their Abraham series to reflect on Luke 2 and two often-overlooked figures surrounding Jesus’ infancy: Simeon and Anna. Coming after a discussion of Herod, the episode intentionally contrasts worldly power with quiet faithfulness.

The conversation centers on how Simeon and Anna are, by all conventional measures, “nobodies:” elderly, powerless and historically insignificant. Yet they are seen by God. Simeon, described as righteous and devout, has waited his entire life for the “consolation of Israel.” Guided by the Holy Spirit, he recognizes the infant Jesus as the Messiah and declares himself ready to die in peace, having finally seen God’s salvation. His response stands in sharp contrast to Herod’s fear-driven violence: Simeon welcomes the Christ even though it marks the end of his own life.

Simeon’s prophecy carries both joy and darkness. While proclaiming Jesus as a light to the Gentiles and the glory of Israel, he also foretells division, opposition, and suffering—including a warning to Mary that a sword will pierce her own soul. Jon and Dave reflect on how Christmas is not merely sentimental but represents Jesus “landing in occupied territory” — a spiritual invasion that forces a response, causing some hearts to rise toward God and others to harden against Him.

The episode then turns to Anna, an elderly prophetess who has spent decades fasting, praying, and worshiping in the temple. Though widowed early and living through national decline and oppression, Anna remains anchored in hope. When she sees Jesus, she immediately gives thanks and tells others who are longing for Israel’s redemption. Dave highlights Anna as a model of perseverance: disappointment does not push her away from God but deeper into prayer, scripture, and prophetic imagination.

Together, Simeon and Anna embody faithful waiting. Their lives testify that God’s promises unfold on His timetable, not ours, and that quiet devotion can carry eternal significance. The episode closes by framing their stories as guides for Advent—an invitation to make space for Christ in hearts already crowded by fear, power, and distraction.