But God kept his promise
Luke 2:25-35 Simeon was righteous and devout and was eagerly waiting for the Messiah … The Holy Spirit was upon him and had revealed to him that he would not die until he had seen the Lord’s Messiah. That day the Spirit led Simeon to the Temple. So, when Mary and Joseph came to present [eight day old] baby Jesus to the Lord as the law required, Simeon was there. He took the child in his arms and praised God, saying,
Sovereign Lord, now let your servant die in peace, as you have promised.
I have seen your salvation
which you have prepared for all people.
He is a light to reveal God to the nations …
Shutterstock: Lopolo
Jesus’ parents were amazed … Then Simeon blessed them, and he said to Mary, “This child is destined to cause many in Israel to fall, but he will be a joy to many others. … The deepest thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your very soul.”
What are you “eagerly waiting” for?
On a walk last week, Dave and I discussed what we each feel we must accomplish before we die. Mine is publishing the book Three-in-One. It’s taking much longer than I expected. Several times I’ve thought I had the final version nailed down. And then one of my early readers comes through with valuable suggestions; each revision has made the book better. I’ve learned that the timeline of my readers doesn’t match mine. I’ve had to practice Simeon’s “eager waiting.”
Can you imagine Simeon’s emotions as he held baby Jesus in his arms, while the Spirit whispered to him, “I’ve kept my promise to you. This tiny baby is the one you’ve been waiting for so long! He will reveal God to the nations!”
That’s exactly my hope for Three-in-One, that it will reveal God in ways that delight us as we wait for Jesus’ return. If readers experience even a part of what has thrilled my heart as I have written this book, all my investment—all my waiting—will be more than worthwhile.
What are you waiting for?
Pure light for the glory of God. Hope. Mercy. Healing balm. A song of joy. Your name. Your Kingdom, Lord; not an earthly kingdom. Your power for salvation; not earthly power. Your will be done. “Song for the Nations” by Jim Gilbert, two versions:
(with lyrics; choir) Note: there’s a mistake on the second-to-last lyric slide. It should say in the peoples of the earth, not to the peoples of the earth.
(with inspirational pics; women’s voices)
Lord, may your Kingdom come in us. In me. Here. Today.
Debra Kornfield 