Simeon and Anna had waited a long time for this moment, and the excitement expressed in this painting by the contemporary Dutch artist, Jan von ‘t Hoff, is infectious. His use of blissful expressions and dramatic lighting draws you into the intimate encounter of age and youth. We are made to feel privileged to be a fly on the wall.
The contribution to the nativity accounts by these two old-age pensioners is considerable and far-reaching. It’s left to these two wise, godly people to explain the significance and destiny of the baby they hold in their arms. Their prophetic words are inspiring, radical, controversial and chilling in equal measure. Jesus of Nazareth is to be a light to the Gentiles as well as to bring glory to the people of Israel. Simeon’s speech is as inclusive as it gets. A message of good news for all Gentiles and an uncomfortable challenge to Jews that their Messiah is to be shared by everyone and not Israel alone. The prophecy also speaks of a mother’s anxiety that her precious bundle will grow up to face opposition, pain and execution.
Jan’s radiant painting, and the gospel story it depicts in St Luke 2:22-40, is a call to all of us older Christian men and women to do two things:
Firstly, to give thanks, pray for and bless the rising generations of children we come-into-contact with. And secondly, to allow our life of prayer and contemplation to give us the insight and courage to speak a prophetic word ‘in season and out of season’. Old age, and the perspective that it brings, is a gift and privilege we need to share. In traditional societies, like the one Jesus grew up in, and in many parts of the world today, old age is venerated and respected for the wisdom it offers. In many western societies, elderly people are sometimes made to feel no longer of value as the pace of life leaves them behind. We must resist this trend and be inspired by Anna and Simeon to bless the rising generations and be prepared to speak out prophetically on issues of concern.
David Hawkins Candlemass February 2nd 2026
