Simeon

Luke 2:21-38

Some noteworthy things to consider:

1. Simeon was looking for the consolation of Israel

He was aware of the OT prophecies and knew that one would come who would be the salvation of Israel. He knew that God had planned for their redemption and salvation and was actively serving the Lord and looking for that day to come. His faith was an active one.


2. The Holy Spirit was upon Him

Such a man was Simeon that the Spirit of God was evident in and upon his life. He knew who God was and had given His life in total devotion to God. The Holy Spirit was evident at work in and through His life and ministry.


3. It has been revealed to Him that He would not die until He saw the Lord's Christ (redeemer)

It has been promised to Simeon that he would not die until he saw the one who God was going to send to be their redeeming. What a promise! He would live to see the fulfillment of OT prophecy from hundreds of years before. He would live to see the Son of God in flesh. He would live and be witness to the events that God had planned from before time began.

4. He was led by the Spirit into the temple at the time that Jesus' parents brought Him there.

The Holy Spirit led Simeon into the temple at just the right time in order to keep His word to Simeon. Simeon was willing to be led and guided by God.

5. Simeon knew the OT prophecies and knew what the Christ child had come to do. He knew that He was the Hope and Salvation of all peoples.

Simeon understood that this was the Hope for which they had waited so many years. He understood that this was the one who could fulfill the whole Law perfectly and step into the gap between man and God, a gap that man alone could never fill. He knew this was God's salvation given to men, both Jew and Gentile.


As I read this passage and reflect on these observations above, I am convicted that I do not live by the same kind of faith that Simeon did. I am convicted that I do not allow myself to be led by the Spirit as Simeon did. I am convicted that I do not live with the same singular focus that He did. I did not live with the same anticipation that Simeon did.

Oh God, may it be that I live my life with a singular devotion and commitment to you. May I live with a singular devotion to faithfully serving You until you come again. May I live with a singular devotion in light of the redemption that you achieved for me, lovingly, boldly, proclaiming Your truth!