Then took he him up in his arms, and blessed God, and said, Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word: For mine eyes have seen thy salvation, which thou hast prepared before the face of all people; a light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel. —Luke 2:28-31
Simeon, a minister in the temple, was promised he would see the Messiah before he died. As was the custom, after eight days Mary and Joseph took the baby Jesus to the temple to consecrate Him to the Lord. (Luke 2:21-23).
Scripture tells us three times in these verses the Holy Spirit revealed the Christ to Simeon (vv. 25-27). When he saw the child, he declared the eternal significance of Christ’s birth: His salvation is for “all peoples,” both Jews and Gentiles. Christ fulfilled Simeon’s prophecy when He later ordered His apostles to preach the gospel to all nations—making Himself a light of revelation to the Gentiles. When He added, “beginning at Jerusalem,” He made Himself the “glory of his people Israel.”
Are you ready for the Messiah? Have you lived your life in expectancy for His appearing? How is Jesus using your life to burn brightly in the world with His good works?
Jesus, make me a light to others. Light of the word,
kindle in me a flame of zeal and faith that
will lead others to You. Amen.
