Simeon

Then he took him up in his arms, and blessed God, and said, Lord, now lettest thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word. For mine eyes have seen thy salvation, Which thou hast prepared before the face of all people; Luke 2:28-31

The story of Simeon and Anna the prophetess is very brief. They waited in the temple until baby Jesus was brought in. They knew, right away, who he was. The Holy Spirit informed them that the Messiah was coming and when Mary and Joseph brought him in, who he was.

How wonderful! So many railed against Him, and tried to confound him, but these two were already waiting for him when he was yet a baby. This passage can easily be passed up or forgotten, yet it is so rich.

It has been noticed that "gentiles" are mentioned first among those who would be blessed. Some see it as a foreshadowing of the church, with Israel, later having their blindness removed, after the church is complete. I see it that way too.

Such obscure people, yet so blessed by the Spirit. Simeon and Anna show that patience and waiting for Christ will be rewarded, no matter how long it takes.