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Have you ever waited a long time for something precious? Some couples struggle with infertility. They long for a child. They consult doctors, endure injections and face repeated, disappointing tests. This may last a few years. Then one day, for some, the tests are positive and a few months later they hold a precious newborn child. What emotion must flood their souls.
I wonder if the emotion Simeon experienced when he held the infant Jesus was anything like that. He had waited years for that moment. Luke 2:28-32 says, ‘Simeon took him in his arms and praised God, saying: “Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you now dismiss your servant in peace. For my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the sight of all people, a light for revelation to the Gentiles and for glory to your people Israel.”’ (NIV)
This is more than the account of an old man rejoicing over baby Jesus. Simeon also references a prophecy from Isaiah 42:6. Jesus was a light for the Gentiles. He would reveal God and his truth to the non-Jewish world, as well as bring glory to Israel.
The accounts of Christmas are far more than a heart-warming story of Jesus’ birth. They record the conclusion of plans laid before time. They show the fulfillment of prophecies delivered hundreds of years before the events unfold. As you celebrate Christmas, give praise to our eternal God.
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Visit Elmer Fuller’s author website at: https://www.elmerfuller.com/
Bumper music “Landing Place” performed by Mark July, used under license from Shutterstock.