The Spirit of God is on Me because the Lord has anointed Me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives and freedom to the prisoners; to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor, and the day of our God’s vengeance; to comfort all who mourn. Isaiah 61:1-2
There was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon. This man was righteous and devout, looking forward to Israel’s consolation, and the Holy Spirit was on him. It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he saw the Lord’s Messiah. Guided by the Spirit, he entered the temple complex. When the parents brought in the child Jesus to perform for Him what was customary under the law, Simeon took Him up in his arms, praised God, and said, “Now, Master, You can dismiss Your slave in peace, as You promised. For my eyes have seen Your salvation. You have prepared it in the presence of all peoples – a light for revelation to the Gentiles and glory to Your people Israel.” His father and mother were amazed at what was being said about Him. Then Simeon blessed them and told His mother Mary, “Indeed, this child is destined to cause the fall and rise of many in Israel and to be a sign that will be opposed – and a sword will pierce your own soul – that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.” Luke 2:25-35
My words…
In a world where I console the baby, You sent a baby to console me. Jesus’ birth, His first coming, is You placing Your cool, tender hand on the burning hot forehead of the world. Comfort, at last. The cries of the infant Jesus were trumpets, heralding an end to sin’s bondage and oppression. His laughter was a sweet bell, a joyful peal to announce the only way to true freedom. Simeon longed to see and hold Your comfort, and You sustained him until he could. The throngs who daily visited and worshiped at the temple had no idea that Simeon held the Salvation of the World. The One whom they prayed would come, holding a sword, reeking havoc on Israel’s enemies, brought instead comfort to Israel, to the Gentiles, to the world forever. A little Baby. A Comforter. Amazing. And in his name all oppression shall cease. Sweet hymns of joy in grateful chorus raise, with all my heart I praise Your holy name. Christ is the Lord! Then ever, ever praise, His power and glory ever more proclaim!
