However we may notice the increase of death in December, personally or by the numbers, we don't like to think much about the implication for us as individuals. It's easier to think of death as a chance event or a medical absolute than to somehow think that we might be a willing partner in our own fate. That complicacy may seem somehow like intention or motivation, like a wish to die. But I have seen and heard quite the opposite. There's comfort for the individual and for the family when death is a welcome end to a meaningful and purpose filled life. These are what are often called good deaths or timely deaths. There are times when the person's true inner goals have been met, and goodbyes have been beautifully orchestrated, that one can really look upon death with acceptance and peace.

Sure, I can't say that all deaths happen this way. We know that isn't true. Catastrophic events take life at inopportune times, and many people are deeply wounded by loved ones lost to cruel circumstances. But what I do know is that it is possible and perhaps desirable to die exactly as one has lived - especially when one has lived well. I do know that mothers sometimes are able to last a day or two past all doctors' expectations to say goodbye to all their children; and that fathers can pass on a life-changing blessing with a few last words. Children comfort surviving parents. Friends and spouses leave an indelible mark of love, that is as my favorite passage of scripture describes it, "…strong as death, with passion as fierce as the grave." Our lives are touched by the certain death of those who are close to us. It is amazing to me how a frail and dying person, thought to be past the point of communication, can say so much with so few words and such minute actions in the very last hours of life. I don't see a lot of randomness in that.

Ironically, this post-Christmas passage is very much about the full cycle of life and death. Just this Wednesday night, we stayed up late to witness a birth, the birth of a baby named Jesus to frightened parents that was attended by shepherds and heralded by angels. Now we take the infant to his dedication in the temple at Jerusalem. His parents bring the mandated offering of two turtledoves for sacrifice since they couldn't afford a sheep, and then they encounter special prophecies from two elderly individuals. From this story, we read about a pre-death wish fulfilled. This is no "bucket-list" wish, the kind of "go skydiving" or "see Paris" thing you check off before "kicking the bucket." This is truly a life-long prayer that gets answered for Simeon. Luke tells us he was an extremely righteous and devout man who prayed every day for the consolation of Israel, and as it is told, "The Holy Spirit rested on him."

His word from the Holy Spirit was an acknowledgment that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord's Messiah. Again, I tell you, death is not quite so random, and I would add that prophecies do come true in places other than fiction and fairy tales. Simeon enters the temple just at the time that Mary and Joseph bring their appointed offering. Simeon catches their eye and takes the baby Jesus into his arms saying, "Master, you are now dismissing your servant in peace, according to your word; for my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the presence of all peoples, a light for revelation to the Gentiles and for glory to your people Israel." Simeon will always be remembered in this connection to his death. He could die happily and peacefully knowing that in the long breadth of time, Jesus would be the one to restore God's chosen people and he could very well be the one who could add the Gentiles to God's beloved. We think of that knowledge as basic at best, but for his time, it was revolutionary.

But Simeon was not alone in blessing this new life with the wisdom of his years. Anna, who was also "of great age" so they say, had been worshipping in the temple since becoming a young widow, only 7 years into her marriage. Up through her 84th year, she was at the temple daily, fasting and praying both day and night. Once this prophet saw Jesus, she too began praising God and rejoicing. She spoke about this child to all who were looking for the redemption of Jerusalem.

What a strange event for Joseph and Mary! Not only did they have shepherds and star-gazing wise men greet them as Jesus was born, they had the amazing wisdom of these aged prophetic visitors to bless them at their baby's dedication. They listened to the counsel of Simeon and Anna. They heard news of both elation for their people and heartbreak for them - as a sword would pierce their souls. It is wise to listen to those who have lived long, full, prayerful lives. In those last moments, when one accepts death and faces head long into an unknown future, something of the holy becomes more transparent to our regular old world.

In the end of this particular text, Luke says, "Jesus grew and became strong, filled with wisdom and the favor of God." Is it any wonder? He was surrounded by wise elders who trusted in the promises of God. If only all children were so very lucky.

Amen.