FRIDAY December 28, 2018
Consolation of Israel
And behold, there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon, and this man was just and devout, waiting for the Consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him.
Luke 2:25
Simeon was just––his life was governed by God’s high standard of justice. Therefore in the eyes of the Lord, he was righteous. He was also devout; he displayed a godly respect for the things of God. Simeon was a true example of a man who feared God.
Simeon patiently waited for the “Consolation of Israel,” a name used for Christ, the long awaited Messiah. It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death, until he had seen the Lord’s Christ. We do not know how long he waited, but Simeon was led into the temple by the Holy Spirit, at the perfect time to see the Child Jesus.
When Joseph and Mary brought the Child into the temple to present Him to the Lord according to the law (Luke 2:22-24), Simeon’s, greatest desire was fulfilled. God had kept His promise to Simeon. He saw with his own eyes the Lord’s Christ. Simeon held in his arms the Child, and prophesied that not only was the Christ Child given for the comfort and salvation of Israel but He would be light to the heathen nations––the Gentiles, as well:
“Lord, now You are letting Your servant depart in peace, according to Your word; for my eyes have seen Your salvation which You have prepared before the face of all peoples, a light to bring revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of Your people Israel” (Luke 2:29-32).
Then Simeon blessed the family, and spoke to Mary about Jesus’ destiny, and foretold of a future event when a sword of sorrow would pierce through to her very soul (Luke 2:34-35). He was speaking of the Cross and the hope of forgiveness it would bring.
Why are you cast down, O my soul?
And why are you disquieted within me?
Hope in God…
~Psalm 42:5~
For more from Raul Ries, please visit Somebodylovesyouradio.org!