Jesus is Essential
Luke 2:25–26: And behold, there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon, and this man was just and devout, waiting for the Consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ.
Simeon and Anna, like Zacharias and Elizabeth, were a part of the faithful Jewish remnant that eagerly looked for their Messiah. Because of his readiness and eagerness to die, Simeon is usually pictured as a very old man. Tradition says he was 113 years old, but it is only tradition.
“The consolation of Israel” means the messianic hope. One of the traditional Jewish prayers is, “May I see the consolation of Israel!” That prayer was answered for Simeon when he saw Jesus Christ in the temple. He was a man who was led by the Spirit of God, taught by the Word of God, and obedient to the will of God; and therefore he was privileged to see the salvation of God. How important it is for people to see God’s salvation, Jesus Christ, before they see death. 1
Walking with Jesus
Notice the three spiritual words that build faithfulness: led, taught, and obedient. Are you being led by His Spirit or by your feelings? Are you receiving the Word of God on a daily basis or are you more interested in your social media accounts? Are you obedient to God’s will or would you rather do your own thing?
I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing. John 15:5
Those who wait upon Him see the greatest manifestations of grace. – TWEET IT
Praying
Lord, where would I be if it were not for Your leadership in my life? Lead me. I need You.
1. Walvoord, John F., & Zuck, R. B., Dallas Theological Seminary. (1985). The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures. Wheaton, IL: Victor Books.
