“For my eyes have seen Your salvation, which You have prepared in the sight of all people, a light for revelation to the Gentiles and for glory to Your people Israel.” Luke 2:30-32
These are the words of old Simeon. He was given a special promise from God that he would not die until He saw the Lord’s Christ with his own eyes. When Joseph and Mary came into the Temple courts for Jesus’ Presentation, the Spirit moved in Simeon and revealed the identity of the baby they held. Overjoyed, Simeon took the child and proclaimed the words above.
We know these words as the Nunc Dimittis, from the Latin meaning “(You) now dismiss”, and recognize them as Simeon’s own willingness to be taken by the Lord now that he had witnessed God’s promise fulfilled with his own eyes. Because he had done so, Simeon did not fear death knowing that the little baby he held had been born to conquer death.
This is the gift of Christmas we receive this day! Jesus birth means the end of death for those who believe. Humanities greatest fear need not hold power over us as we, like Simeon, are assured that because of Jesus’ death and resurrection, we have life abundant, now and for eternity.
In the verses above, we are also given the promise that Jesus is a light of revelation for us and brings glory to our lives. Because this is true, we can rejoice like Simeon this Christmas Day and forevermore!
Know that you are loved!
Peace and Joy and Merry Christmas!
Pastor Kilian