Luke 2:25-35 records the prophecy of Simeon; a just and devout man, on whom was the Holy Spirit of God. The Holy Spirit of God had revealed to Simeon, that Simeon would not see death until he had seen the Lord’s Salvation. And when he sees Jesus, Simeon takes Jesus in his arms and blesses Him, recognizing that it is Jesus who is the fulfillment of the Lord’s promise of Salvation to all mankind. Interestingly, after his encounter with Jesus, Simeon, expresses, “My eyes have seen the salvation of the Lord, now, Lord, let your servant depart in peace”. Though Simeon was to die (experience death), he expresses that he can now depart (not die) in peace.
Those who experience (see) Jesus as their personal Savior have no reason to be concerned or worried about death. Death no longer has any power over those who believe and accept Jesus. They can assuredly depart in peace.
Have you had that personal encounter/experience with Jesus Christ; the Salvation of the Lord; who changes death to a departure of peace?
Luke 2:25-35 (KJV)
25 And, behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the same man was just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was upon him.
26 And it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord’s Christ.
27 And he came by the Spirit into the temple: and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him after the custom of the law,
28 Then took he him up in his arms, and blessed God, and said,
29 Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word:
30 For mine eyes have seen thy salvation,
31 Which thou hast prepared before the face of all people;
32 A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel.
33 And Joseph and his mother marvelled at those things which were spoken of him.
34 And Simeon blessed them, and said unto Mary his mother, Behold, this child is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel; and for a sign which shall be spoken against;
35 (Yea, a sword shall pierce through thy own soul also,) that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.
Recently I came across a painting called “Destiny” which I believe appropriately captures the intent of Christmas. It had the following words inscribed underneath it. “Most of us spend our lives seeking our destiny. One Man [Jesus] created His own. It began in a manger and led to a cross, and it included you. You too have a destiny, and someday … someday soon, your destiny will cross with His.”
