2017-12-19

December 19

For my eyes have seen Your salvation, 31 Which You have prepared in the presence of all peoples, 32 A Light of revelation to the Gentiles, And the glory of Your people Israel.” (Luke 2:30-32)

The words recorded in today’s passage were spoken by Simeon, a righteous and devout man who was eagerly awaiting the long-anticipated Messiah. The Holy Spirit had assured Simeon that he would not die until he saw the Messiah with his own eyes. If we had been in Simeon’s position, we might have tried avoiding an encounter with the Messiah for fear it would mark the end of our lives. For Simeon, however, setting eyes on Christ was more precious than life. The Holy Spirit led Simeon to the temple the day Mary and Joseph brought Jesus. Simeon saw the child Jesus there, took Him in his arms, and spoke these words of celebration. The child Simeon held in his hands was the light of revelation, the hope for salvation for both the Jews and the Gentile outsiders.

Simeon waited faithfully for the Messiah and he was rewarded. He was finally able to see the salvation of God’s people with his own eyes and hold the Messiah in his arms! Advent reminds us to be more like Simeon, and all the other people of God who faithfully waited for the Messiah. The difference is that we wait for His second coming. Like Simeon, when that day comes, we will be rewarded.

  1. Every believer has experienced God’s light firsthand, that moment we “got it” and received salvation. Reflect on God’s place in your life and thank him for his presence.
  2. In what ways has God continued to be a “light of salvation” in your life since your salvation?
  3. How are you actively sharing the light of Christ with others?

 

Spread the Community, Faith, Love