THAT WE WOULD SEE JESUS
"And behold, there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon, and this man was just and devout, waiting for the the Consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. And it has been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord's Christ." (Luke 2:25-26)
"Some have supposed that this Simeon was a son of the famous "Hillel" a distinguished teacher in Jerusalem, and president of the Sanhedrin, but nothing is certainly known of him but what is here related. He was an aged man, of distinguished piety and reputation, and was anxiously expecting the coming of the Messiah." (Matthew Henry)
As we look at Simeon's desire, established and nurtured be the Holy Spirit, we ask a question concerning a similar desire that we as Christians should have in our hearts. "Why don't we too, have a great desire to look for Jesus to be the "Consolation" or "Salvation" of our lives?"
This is what Jesus came to do. He came to bring salvation and hope to the world. He came to save you and me, and to be our Good Shepherd. At Christmas it is hard to see the Christ-Child, because of the distortions and distractions of the world. We are caught up in all of the self-centered pursuits and preoccupations, that feed our fascinations and pleasures. In so doing we are not looking for Jesus, but total self fulfillment.
You say, I have already become a Christian. I have already received Jesus as my Savior, and Lord of my life. What else am I to do?
Simeon was a devout believer in God, and one who believed that a Savior would come. Wasn't that enough?
More than this, Simeon was seeking, looking for the promised Messiah. It was promised to him, that he would not see death, until he saw the Christ-Child in person, and could worship Him. That became the greatest pursuit of his life.
Now that Christmas is behind us, the opportunity to seek our Savior and worship and live for Him, is right before us. Yes, even though we have initially received Him; It is vitally important that we constantly seek His presence in our lives, and strive to have a constant fellowship with Him.
When I think of the word "Consolation" I think of the word "encouragement" What an encouragement to know, and for Simeon to see, the hope of salvation right before you. We can have that experience everyday! We can worship the Lord everyday, because He is right before us everyday. We can be encouraged concerning what He brings to our lives today, and for all eternity.
Our attention is directed at many things at Christmas, as well as during the year. But as we enter into 2023, may it be our greatest desire
THAT WE WOULD SEE JESUS!
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