Scripture to Read: Luke 2:35-40
Simeon lets Mary know that a sword will pierce even to her soul. This piercing happened when Jesus was crucified. We can read the account in the Gospels and see the brokenness of Mary as she weeps for her earthly son and heavenly King. But, the thoughts of many hearts are revealed through our Lord Jesus Christ, for He reveals to us our sin so we can surrender to Him as Lord and receive the fullness of His grace, mercy, peace, and forgiveness. Then we find Anna enter into the picture. She had been married just seven years, and then her husband died. She remained a widow and was at this time, 84 years old. She had been serving in the temple for most of her lifetime with fasting and prayer. When she saw the baby Jesus she “began giving thanks to God and continued to speak of Him to all those who were looking for the redemption of Jerusalem.” WOW, she was declaring that Jesus was the Redeemer (the One who would set His people free from their bondage to sin), the Savior of Jerusalem. Of course, we know He’s the Savior for all people. Since we have this knowledge, we need to be more like Anna and declare our Lord Jesus Christ to everyone we know. Our Lord Jesus is the Only Redeemer and the Only Savior for all mankind. We must proclaim Him, so all have the opportunity to accept Him or reject Him, but that we at least allow them to choose.
Challenge & Application
When is the last time you proclaimed to someone that Jesus is the Only Redeemer for their sin? When will you proclaim Him to those you know who need Him?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!