Life as a shepherd in the days of Jesus was not easy. It was a job for the poor, which meant it did not pay well, and the risks were great. Although lions and bears were no longer frequently sighted in Israel in that day, they still existed, and the shepherd’s weapons amounted to a staff and, if he possessed one, a sling. Days were long, nights were cold, and sheep are notoriously stupid. It took constant vigilance to keep them safe and in line. And so, when the opportunity arose, and when the grazing was ample enough to combine flocks for a feeding, the shepherds no doubt looked forward to an evening enjoying the company of other shepherds. To find safety in numbers and to pass the night along with tall tales and warm drinks was likely a rare treat.

Ever wonder how long Simeon was waiting—day after day in the temple courts—for the Messiah to be revealed? The Bible does not share that information with us. Could have been days, weeks, months or years; maybe even decades. He waited because, as a man who knew the power of the Holy Spirit in his life, it was made privy to him that if he would patiently wait he would live to see the Lord’s Messiah, who would bring about the “consolation of Israel.” Simeon wanted to see hope and salvation for Israel and he knew that these could only come about through the work of Messiah, the long-awaited hope of Israel.

John and Jesus were friends—probably cousins as well. In all likelihood they grew up at least acquainted with each other. It may be one of the factors why he (along with his brother James) was so ready to jump out of his father’s boat and join the ministry of Jesus when he called him to be his disciple. During Jesus’ three-year ministry, John was, it appears, constantly by his side.