About this time all Israel was in expectation. The earnest, devoted students of the Scriptures were looking for the birth of him who was to be their Ruler and Governor. To the aged and pious Simeon it was revealed “by the Holy Ghost that he should not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ.” 5Luke 2:26. GSAM 59.1
When the infant Saviour was brought to the temple, Simeon knew that this child was the one referred to—the Christ. “Then took he him up in his arms, and blessed God, and said, Lord, now lettest thou 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: a light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel.... GSAM 59.2
“And Simeon blessed them [Joseph and Mary], and said unto Mary his mother, Behold, this child is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel; and for a sign which shall be spoken against (yea, a sword shall pierce through thy own soul also), that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed. GSAM 59.3
“And there was one Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Aser.... And she coming in that instant gave thanks likewise unto the Lord, and spake of him to all them that looked for redemption in Jerusalem.” 6Luke 2:28-38. GSAM 59.4