As Promised by Jim Holtzclaw

Luke 2:28-32 NIV

²⁸ Simeon took him in his arms and praised God, saying:

²⁹ “Sovereign Lord, as you have promised,
you may now dismiss your servant in peace.
³⁰ For my eyes have seen your salvation,
³¹ which you have prepared in the sight of all nations:
³² a light for revelation to the Gentiles,
and the glory of your people Israel.

In acerbic sarcasm, we mock those who do not deliver with “Promises, Promises.”   We expect nothing from them.  We have been promised too much, too often without result.  Sadly, we turn away.

Simeon does not turn aside.  The fulfillment of this promise may have taken more years then he cares to remember.  Still, Simeon holds on to who he knows.  He knows the one who made the promise.  He has faith that God is faithful.  Simeon’s faith is justified.  The promise has been kept.  He joyously declares “my eyes have seen your salvation.”

The promise has been kept and not just for Simeon.  It has been kept for us as well.  For “a light of revelation to the Gentiles” is shining on us.  Now, we see the Messiah - not as a baby held in an old Prophet’s arms but as a Savior.  Our Savior.  Thanks be to God for such a gift!

Prayer:

Gracious and Holy God,

Creator and Sustainer,

Thank you for the greatest gift, your son,

our Lord Jesus.

Make us such Christ people

That all the world glows with your grace

In the name of our Lord Jesus.  Amen.