JANUARY 10, Luke 2:25-35 

Simeon was a godly old man who lived in the time of Christ. God, through the Holy Spirit, had promised him that before he died, he would see Christ. God then moved him to go to the temple, revealing to him that the child in Mary’s arms was the Messiah, or Christ.

He was so happy and excited that he took Him out of His mother’s arms into his own. He held the baby Jesus lovingly and respectfully. He blessed God, and praised Him, and gave glory to Him for His great goodness in sending the promised Messiah.

This was to be the greatest act of love and sacrifice that the world has ever seen, for Jesus will be the Saviour of all people – both Jews and Gentiles.

It is not surprising that Simeon was blessed for he lived a holy life. Do you live a holy life? Do you seek to please God as best you can? If you do, God will surely bless you!

It is easy to start on the right footing; it is tough to end on a right footing, for many of us waver and do not remain faithful to the end. The remarkable account of Simeon is that although he was already an old man, the Bible tells us that he was “just and devout”.

Perhaps many people then would have poured scorn on the baby Jesus, for a woman who was not married gave birth to Him. It must have been such a shame and many would not want to be associated with Mary or Jesus, but not Simeon. He who was faithful from earlier days, remained faithful to the end and he knew this was the Promised Son of God. Despite very possibly the contempt and ridicule of others around, he had faith that the baby was God born in human form.

Thought: Those who walk closely with God will be blessed.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, may I walk close to You for I want to be blessed by You and Your presence. May I learn from the wise old man Simeon, to dare to be different if that is what Your Holy Bible teaches. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.