by Christina Isenhower
I’ve always been amazed with Simeon’s story in Luke 2. Like all Jews of his time, this man had studied the prophesies and was waiting for the Messiah. Yet the Holy Spirit chose this man to give a direct, specific message. The message from God was that he would not die until he saw the Messiah in person. All history had been building up to Jesus’ birth. Yet, Simeon was the man whose life’s longing, would now be fulfilled. It wasn’t just his hopes and dreams though, it was his nation’s hopes and dreams. Listen to his words as he holds God’s promise fulfilled.
28he took him up in his arms and blessed God and said,
29“Lord, now you are letting your servant[d] depart in peace,
according to your word;
30for my eyes have seen your salvation
31 that you have prepared in the presence of all peoples,
32 a light for revelation to the Gentiles,
and for glory to your people Israel.”
Advent is about anticipation of the coming Messiah. The waiting, the longing. Simeon was so in tune with God that his desires aligned with God’s desires. Note that his prayer is not only for his Jewish people, but for worldwide salvation as well.
What are we doing to pursue a relationship of two way communication with the Lord? How can we align our thoughts and desires with God’s thoughts and desires? How can we have a similar longing and anticipation for Jesus this advent season?