The answer is: Simeon

Luke 2:25-26

Simeon’s story in the Gospel of Luke is as heartwarming as it is profound. This man was in tune with the divine Spirit, and it’s important to appreciate what that implies. In a time ruled by an oppressive regime and amidst personal struggles, Simeon embodies hope. He waited with eagerness and faith for the promised Messiah—a figure whose imminent arrival was a beacon of light amidst the shadows of life.

When Simeon finally laid eyes on the infant Jesus in the Temple, he was not merely seeing a baby; it was the fulfillment of his lifelong hope. The way Luke articulates this encounter is rich in symbolism. The temple indeed plays a critical role, representing the intersection of divine promise and human history. Those familiar with the Hebrew Scriptures may recall that this hope had been handed down through generations, linking Simeon's moment back to the prophets—like Isaiah, who spoke of a light to reveal God to the Gentiles.

Interestingly, the name "Simeon" itself means "he has heard." This little nugget adds more to his story, suggesting a divine communication that not only prepares him to witness Jesus but also emphasizes the overarching narrative that God's plan is continually revealed worldwide. Simeon’s famous proclamation, often referred to as the "Nunc Dimittis," beautifully cements the idea that true fulfillment often comes in God's time—not ours!