TUESDAY December 28, 2021

The 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. He was also devout meaning “Careful as to the realization of the presence and claims of God, reverencing God or pious.” Simeon was an upright, righteous and virtuous man who kept God’s commands. He was a true example of a man who feared and loved 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 Simeon waited, but he was led into the temple by the Holy Spirit at the perfect time to see 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 very own eyes the Lord’s Christ. Simeon held Jesus in his arms and prophesied that, not only was Christ born 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).

As Mary and Joseph marveled at all the words spoken by Simeon, he continued to bless them. Then Simeon spoke personally to Mary. He foretold of a future event of Jesus’ destiny and Mary’s sorrow––a sword that would pierce her into the depths of her very own soul (Luke 2:34-35). Simeon spoke of the Cross. Her Savior would be pierced on the tree.

Look to the Cross, and hate your sin, for sin nailed your Well Beloved to the tree.
~C.H. Spurgeon~

For more from Raul Ries, please visit SomebodyLovesYou.com!