In our world today there are times where it feels like darkness is winning. The world feels divided, disoriented, and full of distraction. People today are hoping for quick fixes and instant satisfaction which often fades just as fast. Many are left wondering: Is God still at work?

Simeon and Anna, two quiet characters in the Luke 2 narrative, knew that feeling well. They lived through long years of waiting. Years when it seemed like God was silent. Yet they didn’t give up. They kept showing up at the temple, praying, watching, and trusting that God was still moving, even when they couldn’t see it.

In the waiting, behind the scenes, God was indeed stirring. Something miraculous was being birthed—literally. When Mary and Joseph carried Jesus into the temple,  Simeon and Anna recognized what others missed. Their hearts overflowed with gratitude because their eyes had been trained by waiting. They could see the light of God breaking through the darkness.

Then, holding the child in his arms, Simeon declared:

“I have seen your salvation, which you have prepared for all people” – Luke 2:30-31 (NLT)

That same posture speaks to us today. In a world that often feels like it’s unraveling, we’re invited to stay faithful, keep showing up, and train our eyes to see where God is at work.

At times, the waiting feels long. But under the surface, God is moving. At YFC we catch glimpses of it. In the spiritual hunger of young people searching for more than the world’s empty promises. In the testimonies of students finding hope in Jesus. In moments of community, prayer, and unexpected kindness that whisper, God is being born here, now.

Our mission is simple but powerful, to see every young person living fully in Christ. That means walking with them through seasons of darkness, doubt and waiting, helping them notice the awakening of new life all around them, and reminding them that God has not stopped working. As each youth takes steps to becoming a disciple, God is present, making all things new.

Like Simeon and Anna, may we become people of patient hope – attentive, expectant, and ready to rejoice when we see the evidence of God’s promise fulfilled in the lives of youth we serve. Even in the waiting, light is dawning.

Thank you so much for your prayers and partnership this past year, together we are truly helping young people see the life and light that’s being born in Christ.