January 17, 2025 - Luke‬ ‭2‬:‭25‬-‭32

“Now there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon, and this man was righteous and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ. And he came in the Spirit into the temple, and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him according to the custom of the Law, he took him up in his arms and blessed God and said, “Lord, now you are letting your servant depart in peace, according to your word; for my eyes have seen your salvation that you have prepared in the presence of all peoples, a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and for glory to your people Israel.”” Luke 2:25-32 ESV

Lord, let it be said by you that we are righteous and devout.  Simeon lived in a time when the coming of the messiah had been prophesied for generations and hundreds of years. Yet, he didn’t doubt that the prophecies would come true. Not only that he stood on your word to him that he would see you before he died. I am sure some doubted that would happen. Likely even other religious men. But Simeon held fast to his faith. Lord, make us more like Simeon. Let us have faith to believe what you are telling us no matter how many others might doubt you. Let us live in a righteous way and remain devout to you always.

I also love that when Simeon saw you he said, “my eyes have seen your salvation.” Jesus, you are our salvation. Your name, Jesus, literally means “the Lord saves.” Salvation isn’t just something you choose to do sometimes; it is who you are. We never have to doubt that you will be there for us. You were, you are and always will be to save us. We can let go of control and put our trust in you. How amazing and freeing! We praise you, our wonderful Savior.

In Jesus name, amen.