WEDNESDAY December 28, 2022
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. The word just means “upright, righteous, virtuous, keeping the commands of God.” 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 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. The Holy Spirit had revealed to him 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 Him.
When Joseph and Mary brought Jesus into the temple to present Him to the Lord, according to the law (Luke 2:22-24), Simeon’s greatest desire in life was fulfilled. God had kept His promise to Simeon. He was able to behold Him with his very own eyes, and even hold the Child Jesus in his arms. Then, Simeon began to prophesy:
“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).
Christ was not only born for the comfort and salvation of Israel, but He would be a light to the Gentile nations, as well. 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 the future event concerning her Son. Jesus’ destiny and Mary’s sorrow entwined––a sword would pierce into the depths of her very own soul (Luke 2:34-35). Simeon spoke of the Cross. Her Son would be pierced on a 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!
