Scripture to Read: Luke 2:33-34
As Simeon is declaring who the baby Jesus is, both Mary and Joseph are amazed. Mary and Joseph had both already heard, from the angel Gabriel, about who Jesus was, is and always would be, as Lord and Savior for all mankind. We’re not sure if their amazement was at the fact that Simeon was declaring what they already knew, or that Simeon was not afraid to proclaim this truth to all who were listening, or that it was just because Jesus is amazing in every way. What we should ask ourselves is this, “Are we still amazed at who Christ is and at all He’s done for us through His life, death, burial, and resurrection?” If we’ve lost that amazement, then we need to get back to pursuing our King and Lord and filling our mind and heart with His Word. Simeon also declares to Mary that Jesus will be “the fall and rise of many in Israel and a sign to be opposed.” Many of the Jews missed who Jesus was in their day, and of course, for the last 2000 plus years, many have missed who Christ is as well. Jesus is the “stone which the builders rejected,” and He’s the “stone of stumbling and a rock of offense.” God has Peter write of this in 1 Peter 2:6-8, and of course, these are prophetic words declared in Isaiah 8:14; Isaiah 28:16 and Psalm 118:22. God has Simeon declare this same truth, that many will miss Jesus as their Messiah.
Challenge & Application
Who do you know that is missing Jesus as their Messiah? How will you share Him with them this week? What must you do to keep the amazement in your life about all Christ has done for you, and is still doing?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!