December 24
“Through the tender mercy of our God, the Dayspring from on High has visited us,” Luke1:74. These amazing words of Zacharias, husband of Elizabeth, father of John the Baptist, were uttered in the presence of his young cousin Mary regarding the child that she would deliver who would be Savior of the world.
Another utterance regarding the Babe came when the angel of the Lord announced His birth to the shepherds. He said, “…I bring you good tidings of great joy for all people; unto you is born this day…a Savior, which is Christ the Lord,” Luke 2:10, 11. And other words that have great import were spoken by an elderly prophet of God regarding the infant.
When Jesus was taken by Mary and Joseph to be dedicated in the temple they were greeted by Simeon to whom the Lord had revealed that he would not die until he had seen the promised Messiah. His words were profound, “Lord, now let Your servant depart in peace according to Your word: for my eyes have seen Your Salvation, which You have prepared before all people—a light to lighten the Gentiles and the glory of Your people Israel,” Luke 2:25-32.
Not only was the birth of Jesus prophesied in the Old Testament, but godly men who were living at the time of His birth recognized who He was because God spoke to them and told them that He was the long-awaited Messiah! As the Holy Spirit spoke to their hearts to assure them of who Jesus was, so will He speak to ours to affirm that He is indeed the Christ who came to save mankind from bondage to sin.
That is one of my favorite passages. Can you imagine the joy of Simeon. This man who had waited a lifetime to see God's Messiah got up in the morning and the Holy Spirit said, "Today Simeon". Led by the Spirit. he went to the temple.
ReplyDeleteHundreds of babies were brought for dedication every day. How would he know which one. As he sat and anticipated, a couple came in with their baby and the Holy Spirit said, "Simeon, IT IS HIM". His magnificent obsession was fulfilled. He took the chil;d in his arms and PRAISED GOD.
As you read Revelation, if Jesus is not God, then heaven is full of idolaters. (HRM)