“Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you may now dismiss your servant in peace. For my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the sight of all nations: a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of your people Israel.” Luke 2:30–32, NIV.
God gave Simeon an incredible promise that he would see the Messiah before he died. He lived every day with the anticipation that He was going to see His Savior face to face. The moment Simeon saw Jesus, He knew that he was looking at salvation for the entire world.
He extols God and declares the far-reaching purpose Jesus has to the nation of Israel and to the Gentiles. Jesus’ sphere of influence extends beyond the borders of Jerusalem to the ends of the earth.
Luke 2:22–40 abolishes any kind of limitation placed on economic, racial, and gender inequalities by promoting the inclusion of all nations to receive salvation and redemption. These scriptures focus on the veracity of God’s love by speaking through Simeon (and Anna), establishing a universal gospel to be preached to the whole world by revealing who Jesus is; the light to the Gentiles and glory to Israel.
This world was never intended to have everything we need, that is why we are longing for something greater.
Revelation 21:4 explains what heaven will be like, “And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.”
Just as Simeon lived in anticipation to see the Messiah face to face, we should live our lives with the expectancy of Jesus’ second coming.
This world is ready for peace and hope—everything that Jesus promises. Today, as you celebrate with your family, turn to the Lord for every need—He is the one who gives true peace and joy. Together, let us anticipate His return.
Comments are closed.