Day 28, Read Luke 2:25-35

Simeon, filled with the Holy Spirit, just happened to enter the area of the court of the women at the right time.  What resulted, also by the Spirit, was the fourth hymn of praise associated with the birth of Christ (Mary’s, Zachariah’s and the angel to the shepherds).  Simeon’s song and words to Mary are highly exalting of the Lord Jesus.  Consider what we learn about Christ.

·        Jesus is the “Consolation of Israel.”  When God announced “comfort” to His people (Isa. 40:1-2) it was followed by the prediction of the ministry of the Forerunner (John the Baptist, Isa. 40:3-5). 

·        Jesus is the “Lord’s Christ.”  As we have noted in previous studies, God was the One who appointed Christ to be King and Priest (Psalm 2:2,6; 110:1).   Jesus is both “Christ the Lord” (Lk. 2:11) and “the Lord’s Christ.”

·        Jesus is “Your salvation.”  He is God’s salvation, God’s provision for men.  His name indicates that as well: Jesus, the Lord saves.  The oft repeated prayer of God’s people, “grant us Your salvation’ (Ps. 85:7), was answered in Jesus.

·        Jesus is the glorious Light.  This reminds us again of God’s glory being bound up in His Son.  But in this case the emphasis is on the way Jesus is the Light of the world.  As God had said, “I will be the glory in her midst” (Zech. 2:5).

·        Jesus is Revealer of Hearts.  Here is an amazing thought that opens up the narrative of the Gospels to greater use as we read them.  Simeon’s words to Mary are difficult when he says by the Spirit that “a sword will pierce through your own soul also.”  But this is something we must not forget about Christ.  The previous four thoughts about Christ tend to emphasize the blessing of salvation that comes through Him.  However, men will not be saved if they do not understand their need of salvation.  Thus Jesus, in His ministry and teaching, will reveal the hearts of men.  Their sin will be obvious.  But not all will respond to this revelation in faith.  All who reject the truth will fall, but those who repent and believe will rise.  Another way of saying this is that Jesus is “the stone of stumbling” and the “chief cornerstone” (1 Peter 2:6-8).  As you read the gospels pay attention in every situation to the way Jesus’ interaction with people reveals what is really in their hearts.  And then pay even closer attention to what is revealed in your own heart!

Again we see that the Savior God has sent is totally satisfying.  He meets every expectation of godly people.  He will not disappoint you.  The yearning in your heart for peace and joy will only be satisfied in Christ.  He will reveal how you are the reason you lack satisfaction in life.  And if you accept the truth about your own heart, He is the Savior who can bring healing to your heart.