Discharging Our Loyal Soldier Luke 2:22-40 Father Mark's sermon reflects on the biblical narrative of Simeon and Anna encountering the infant Jesus in the Temple. He explores the theme of transitions in life, using Simeon's experience as a metaphor. Father Mark extends this metaphor to our lives, suggesting that we often struggle with identity and purpose after major life transitions, akin to the loyal Japanese soldiers post-WWII. He suggests that, like Simeon and the loyal soldiers, we must learn to let go of past roles and identities to embrace new callings and purposes. This involves shifting from seeking a distant God to recognizing and surrendering to God's omnipresent nature. We have the opportunity to embrace the present presence of God in our lives here and now. Scripture quotations are from New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright © 1989 National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.