While the angels and shepherds were gathered in the manger witnessing and celebrating the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem, God was preparing the heart of an old man six miles to the north in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon. Luke records that he was both “righteous” (faithfully keeping God’s commandments) and “devout” (reverencing God in all he said and did). Luke also records that he was looking for the “consolation” of Israel, that is, he was looking for that which would bring comfort and refreshment to the nation (Lk. 2:25).

And, the Holy Spirit had revealed to him that “…he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Messiah” (Lk. 2:26). Tens of thousands of Israelites before Simeon had wanted to see the Messiah, but it was revealed to Simeon that he would indeed be one of those who would see Him.

Again, the Holy Spirit led Simeon into the Temple at precisely the same time that Joseph and Mary brought Jesus to be circumcised by one of the priests (Lk. 2:27). Upon seeing the baby, Simeon took Him into his arms and blessed God saying,

“Now Lord, you are releasing Your bondservant to depart in peace, according to your word; for my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the presence of all peoples” (Lk. 2:29-31).

Before Simeon “saw” death, he “saw” the Messiah, with whom he rightly connected with the source of “salvation” that would be for all people. Indeed, the Messiah was prophesied to come through the Jews, but this Messiah would also bring salvation to all peoples, both Jew and Gentile alike. And then Simeon continued by saying that Jesus would be,

“A light of revelation to the nations, and the glory of your people Israel” (Lk. 2:32).

In the beginning, it was light that dispelled the darkness, and it is light that reveals that which is hidden from sight. What had been hidden from sight was the source of salvation, which would not be through the Law or religious ritual, but through a Person. Interestingly, even though Simeon was “righteous” and “devout,” he realized that his devotion to God was not the source of salvation because he also needed the Messiah, the one who would bring salvation to all peoples. The price of salvation would be paid for by Jesus as he spread his arms on the cross and shed His blood for you and for me some thirty-three years later.

The Holy Spirit revealed to Simeon that he would not die until he saw the Messiah, the One who would save us from the penalty and power of sin. Like Simeon was drawn by the Holy Spirit to the Temple to meet Jesus, perhaps that same Holy Spirit is speaking to you about coming to the One who can bring salvation to your life. He came for the purpose to “save us from our sins.” Let’s not miss this opportunity for our souls to be cleansed and our lives transformed because of His arrival two thousand years ago.

Peggy and I love you and are so thankful for you. We pray that you have a very Merry Christmas!!