The Prophecy of Simeon
25At that time there was a man in Jerusalem named Simeon. He was righteous and devout and was eagerly waiting for the Messiah to come and rescue Israel. The Holy Spirit was upon him 26and had revealed to him that he would not die until he had seen the Lord’s Messiah. 27That day the Spirit led him to the Temple. So when Mary and Joseph came to present the baby Jesus to the Lord as the law required, 28Simeon was there. He took the child in his arms and praised God, saying,
29“Sovereign Lord, now let your servant die in peace, as you have promised.
30I have seen your salvation,
31which you have prepared for all people.
32He is a light to reveal God to the nations, and he is the glory of your people Israel!”
33Jesus’ parents were amazed at what was being said about him. 34Then Simeon blessed them, and he said to Mary, the baby’s mother, “This child is destined to cause many in Israel to fall, but he will be a joy to many others. He has been sent as a sign from God, but many will oppose him. 35As a result, the deepest thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your very soul.”
Simeon’s prophecy is more revealing than we think. At first glance it looks like just another person recognizing that Jesus is special, but there is so much more there. Remember that the Jewish people expected a Messiah that was a conquering king, like David, who would put Israel back on top of the great nations list. Simeon was likely no different, but look at what he actually says.
“I have seen your salvation, which you have prepared for all people. He is a light to reveal God to the nations…” This may not seem like a big deal to you now, but it is HUGE.
Jesus is salvation and light for everyone. Think about it. The salvation is already won and Jesus did it. It doesn’t matter where we are from or what sins we have committed or if we are liberal or conservative or the color of our skin or the neighborhood we live in. Jesus is our light and salvation. We can’t earn the salvation, because Jesus is “it” already. Nothing else really matters in the entire universe. Jesus is it.
It might at first be upsetting, but if you think about this is incredible: An ISIS member who beheaded someone yesterday could see the light of Jesus Christ today, accept his salvation, and be with the person he beheaded in paradise tomorrow. Don’t be offended by that, rejoice in it! Someday you, or someone you love dearly, just might have done that horrendous sin…and Jesus salvation will be there “for all people”, including me.
Lord, help me rejoice and believe for you truly have saved us all. Humble me so I understand that the gravity of sin is not what is important but the gravity of you love and sacrifice is overwhelming. Then help me pass that love along.
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