Luke 2
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Luke 2:33-35, The child’s father and mother marveled at what was said about him. Then Simeon blessed them and said to Mary, his mother: “This child is destined to cause the falling and rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be spoken against, so that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your own soul too.”
Please be sure to read through the whole chapter today. This is going to be pretty familiar Scripture. It’s what we consider the traditional Christmas story and the words are beautiful and joy-filled. I could literally read them over and over again.
For our focus verses today, however, I wanted to choose something a little less familiar. Joseph and Mary are good, law-abiding Jews. Thus, they visit the Temple at just the right time to give sacrifices for Mary’s purification (done about 40 days after giving birth.) It was also at this time that they dedicate their first-born son to the Lord. The new parents offer a pair of doves or two young pigeons, which would have been the sacrifice offered for those who are poor or possibly middleclass. This just serves to reinforce that Jesus did not come from money or influence.
The Spirit leads an older man in the Temple, named Simeon, to greet Jesus and his parents. The Scripture says that Simeon was righteous and devout and had been waiting for the consolation of Israel. This consolation does not refer to the Jewish political hopes of conquering the Romans but rather the hope that will come with the Messiah, the salvation of Jesus Christ and the coming of God’s Kingdom.
Simeon’s song to God is quite beautiful. He says that now he has seen God’s salvation, he can die in peace. Jesus will be a light to the Gentiles and the glory of the nation of Israel. It says that his parents marveled at what was said about him. Remember, they knew their child was special but as sleep-deprived parents of an infant, all of this was probably pretty difficult to wrap their heads around.
Our focus verses highlight Simeon’s next statements, which serve as prophecy. Jesus’ message will divide the nation. Some will believe and others will oppose him. The journey toward promise-fulfillment will be a difficult one. To walk with Jesus will bring pain and persecution and many will in turn reject him.
Mary’s heart will be broken or pierced as well. It is incredibly painful for a mother to see her child rejected. Most moms I know would gladly endure pain and suffering so their child wouldn’t have to do so. Simeon is preparing Mary for what’s to come.
One more phrase of interest is that “the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed.” Jesus is essentially God’s litmus test for the hearts of people. Do I need to follow Jesus and seek the light OR can I just attempt to do this life based on my own version of right and wrong? Jesus will reveal what is in the hearts of people.
Let’s pray…Lord Jesus, How thankful we are that we have the privilege of walking with you. Help us grow in faithful maturity and wisdom so we can better reflect you in all we do. More of you and less of me, Jesus. Amen.