There are elements in the Christmas story that we ignore somewhat. Just eight days after His birth, His parents took Him about six miles from Bethlehem to Jerusalem. Just a couple of hours down the road. Not many Americans are used to walking that far – unless it’s part of their exercise routine. Then, it was very normal to do so.
But what followed wasn’t the usual sacrifice.
And, behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the same man was just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was upon him. (Luke 2:25 KJV)
The Holy Spirit did not come into existence at Pentecost – He worked with mankind since creation. Here, He had been with Simeon, whose mission was to await the Consolation of Israel – a name given to the anticipated Messiah.
Now, that promise is carried before Simeon in the arms of a young woman. Through the Holy Spirit, Simon recognizes the child.
And it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord's Christ. And he came by the Spirit into the temple: and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him after the custom of the law, (Luke 2:26-27 KJV)
What did the mother do? For some time now she’s been keeping all these things and pondering them in her heart. Now she meets an old man who takes her child from her:
Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word: For mine eyes have seen thy salvation, Which thou hast prepared before the face of all people; A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel. (Luke 2:29-32 KJV)
Simeon didn’t need to see the Messiah’s work. He knew that in God’s time, in God’s way, all was well with the world that God had prepared.
And Joseph and his mother marvelled at those things which were spoken of him. And Simeon blessed them, and said unto Mary his mother, Behold, this child is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel; and for a sign which shall be spoken against; (Yea, a sword shall pierce through thy own soul also,) that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed. (Luke 2:33-35 KJV)
“A sign which shall be spoken against.” Look about today, is He not spoken against, still?
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