Simeon took him [Jesus] in his arms and praised God, saying: “Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you may now dismiss your servant in peace. For my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the sight of all nations: a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of your people Israel.” Luke 2:28-32
Lord Jesus, this passage records a glorious mystery and profound hope. Eight days after your birth, Simeon took you in his arms. But who was really holding whom?
By your arms all things were made, and are sustained. By those same arms, you were nailed to the cross, and now rule supreme. And in a most profound way, those arms embrace us in the Gospel, and will never let go of us. The saints in heaven are more joyful than us, but they’re not more loved or more secure.
As we hasten to bid 2020 good riddance, Slow… Us… Down, Lord Jesus. Like Simeon, we want to live thankfully, intentionally, and expectantly. Oh, that in 2021, we might live by the rhythms of peace, at the pace of grace, with the values of eternity, and the hope of heaven.
Salvation is coming to “all nations,” because you have come to us. Your glory will fill the earth, “everything sad will come untrue,” and all things will be beautiful, because you are coming again. Our Father has left nothing to chance, but all things to you (Heb. 1:2). This is so good; and so very Amen we pray, in your glorious and grace-full name.