Last December I had some friends over for dinner and because it was the first day of Advent I asked one of my guests if he would do a short devotional for us between dinner and dessert.  What he shared about Simeon was so compelling, it made me want to delve deeper and get all up in this man’s “bizniz”!

Simeon is a relatively minor figure in the narrative of Jesus’ birth, but he was deeply devoted, righteous, expectant, Holy Spirit-led, and a prophet without fear or favor.   However, contrary to common belief, what he may NOT have been, was old and about to die.

Scripture describes him as devout, living right with God, and eagerly looking for the promised Messiah despite 400 years of prophetic silence.

“It had been revealed to Him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he saw the Lord’s Messiah.”  Luke 2:26

He followed the Holy Spirit’s lead to go to the temple that day when Mary and Joseph brought the baby Jesus to be dedicated to the Lord.

“Now, Master, you can dismiss your servant in peace, as you promised, For my eyes have seen your salvation.” Luke 2:29-30

At first glance it might seem from the text that Simeon was saying, “I’m old and content to die now.” The promise that he would live to see the Messiah had been fulfilled. 

But what if, as my friend shared and many scholars believe, Simeon was not talking about dying at all but about the fulfillment of his deepest desire, his steadfast, unshakeable hope, and his greatest joy – to see with his own eyes the One who would bring God’s salvation to the whole world.

Nothing Simeon would experience or accomplish for the rest of his life could compare to seeing God’s Word literally come alive. The Holy Spirit’s revelation had become his life’s mission. He knew exactly Who this baby was and what He would do, so Simeon began to prophesy!

“He is a light to reveal God to the nations, and He is the glory of your people Israel!… This Child is destined to cause many in Israel to fall, and many others to rise. He has been sent as a sign from God, but many will oppose Him.  As a result, the deepest thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will place your very soul.” Luke 2:32,34-35.

Poor Mary, but that’s a story for another day!

Hundreds of years passed yet Simeon was still eagerly awaiting the arrival of Messiah because he believed God. Obedience led him to exactly the right place and time to see the promise fulfilled.

Thousands of years later, are we just as eagerly awaiting the second arrival of Jesus, in all His power and glory?  I pray He finds us living like Simeon, righteous and ready!

“He who is the faithful witness to all these things says, ‘Yes, I am coming soon!’

Amen! Come, Lord Jesus!”  Revelation 22:20