Holding on to Hope

At this time of year, some can’t wait to open their Christmas presents. And some can’t wait for Christmas to be over.

Luke’s Gospel tells us about Simeon, a man who was waiting for the first Christmas. More specifically, he was waiting for Christ. That was no small feat at this time historically. Israel had, for all practical purposes, turned its back on God. As a result, the people of Israel had not heard from the Lord for four hundred years.

God had revealed to Simeon that he would not die until he saw the Messiah. He held on to the promise God gave through the prophet Malachi: “But for you who fear my name, the Sun of Righteousness will rise with healing in his wings” (Malachi 4:2 NLT).

Then one day the Lord led Simeon to go to the temple. I’m sure Simeon was glad he went, because that day Mary and Joseph walked in with the baby Jesus. They looked like any other couple, but the Lord revealed to Simeon that Jesus was the Messiah.

Then Simeon walked up to Mary and Joseph, took Jesus in his arms, and praised God. He said, “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, and he is the glory of your people Israel!” (Luke 2:29–32 NLT). When Simeon held Jesus, he held hope in his arms.

Simeon was eagerly waiting for Jesus to come the first time. Jesus Christ is coming back a second time as well. The first time He was laid in a manger, and the next time He’ll come in glory. Yes, the Messiah is coming again. And like Simeon, we should live in anticipation of that day.