THURSDAY December 28, 2023

From the Cradle to the Cross

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 an elderly man who had an intimate relationship with the Lord. The Holy Spirit revealed to him that he would not see death until he had seen the Lord’s Christ (Luke 2:26). Simeon was a God-fearing man who loved the Lord. He was just, which means he was “upright and righteous––keeping the commands of God.” He had a God-fearing standard of justice.

Simeon was also devout, meaning “reverencing God or pious.” Simeon patiently waited for the “Consolation of Israel,” a title used for Christ, the Messiah. Simeon patiently waited. God led him into the temple by the Holy Spirit at the perfect time to see Jesus.

When Joseph and Mary brought Jesus into the temple to present Him to the Lord, according to the Law (Luke 2:27), Simeon’s waiting expired. God kept His promise; with his own eyes he saw the Child. Simeon took Him up in his arms and spoke another profound 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; He would be revealed to the Gentile nations as well. Simeon continued to bless Mary and Joseph. Then he addressed Mary personally. Jesus’ destiny would cause a sword to pierce the depths of her soul (Luke 2:34-35). Simeon spoke of the Cross. From the cradle to the Cross, Mary’s Son would be pierced on a tree, and her heart would be pierced with sorrow.

The only cross in all of history that was turned into an altar was the cross on which Jesus Christ died ... They nailed Him on it, and God, in His majesty and mystery, turned it into an altar. The Lamb who was dying in the mystery and wonder of God was turned into the Priest who offered Himself. No one else was a worthy offering.
~A.W. Tozer~

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