In Luke 2:25-35 we meet a man named Simeon who
had been longing for Messiah. The Lord promised that he would not die until he
had seen Him.
25 Now there was a man in Jerusalem called Simeon, who
was righteous and devout. He was waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the
Holy Spirit was on him. 26 It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that
he would not die before he had seen the Lord’s Messiah. 27 Moved by the Spirit,
he went into the temple courts. When the parents brought in the child Jesus to
do for him what the custom of the Law required, 28 Simeon took him in his arms
and praised God, saying:
29 “Sovereign Lord, as you have
promised, you may now dismiss your servant in peace. 30 For my eyes have seen
your salvation, 31 which you have prepared in the sight of all nations: 32 a
light for revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of your people Israel.”
33 The child’s father and mother
marveled at what was said about him. 34 Then Simeon blessed them and said to
Mary, his mother: “This child is destined to cause the falling and rising of
many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be spoken against, 35 so that the
thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your own soul
too.”
Not everyone recognized Jesus as the Son of God. It
says that Simeon was righteous, devout, waiting, and watching for the Savior.
Today those attributes are necessary for recognition of Jesus in our presence
as well.
Allow God’s Spirit to lead you and fill you in knowing
Jesus even more intimately.