December 22, 2022

Luke 2:25-35  (HCSB)
Simeon’s Prophetic Praise
25 There was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon. This man was righteous and devout, looking forward to Israel’s consolation, and the Holy Spirit was on him. 26 It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he saw the Lord’s Messiah. 27 Guided by the Spirit, he entered the temple complex. When the parents brought in the child Jesus to perform for Him what was customary under the law, 28 Simeon took Him up in his arms, praised God, and said: 29 Now, Master, You can dismiss Your slave in peace, as You promised. 30 For my eyes have seen Your salvation. 31 You have prepared it in the presence of all peoples— 32 a light for revelation to the Gentiles and glory to Your people Israel. 33 His father and mother were amazed at what was being said about Him. 34 Then Simeon blessed them and told His mother Mary: “Indeed, this child is destined to cause the fall and rise of many in Israel and to be a sign that will be opposed — 35 and a sword will pierce your own soul—that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”

Doug Carver
Chaplain (Major General), US Army, Retired - Executive Director of Chaplaincy - North American Mission Board
The poor Iraqi woman wept uncontrollably as I prayed for ways to comfort her. Separated by our language and cultural barriers, I looked desperately to my interpreter for assistance. Finally, the emotionally distraught woman spoke, “Please thank America for coming to help us. I prayed for years for God to send His angels to rescue us from evil, and you’ve come, you’ve come!" People of faith have one thing in common: the Holy Spirit gifts them the ability to wait for God to fulfill every biblical promise. They “see” His Word in faith, believe it, and embrace it with confidence, perseverance, and hope (Hebrews 11:13). Simeon, a holy and dedicated man of God, had spent his entire life anticipating one specific promise from God-that he would personally see the “the consolation of Israel” before the end of his earthly life. After years of patiently waiting in hope, Simeon looked into the face of the baby Jesus and saw God’s promised Messiah, the Savior and light of the world. Lord help us to wait, even if Your promises take a lifetime, for You are Faithful and True.