“Simeon took Jesus in his arms and praised God, saying, ‘Master, now you are dismissing your servant in peace, according to your word, for my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the presence of all peoples, a light for revelation to the gentiles and for glory to your people Israel.’” [Luke 2:28-32; NRSV]
Joseph and Mary made their way to the temple because the law of Moses required the purification of the mother and the presentation of the firstborn son, Jesus, on the fortieth day. Simeon and Anna were at the temple that day, too. Guided by the Spirit Simeon came into the temple; and when the parents brought Jesus, to do what was customary under the law, Simeon took the infant in his hands and began praising God. Then Anna also chimed in praising God for this child. Mary had already been treasuring everything that happened on the day of her child’s birth and now this! The Spirit guided Simeon and Anna and both proclaimed Mary’s child would bring about redemption not only for Jews, but for Gentiles as well. Jesus a light of revelation for all. What about Jesus is a light of revelation for you? Is it his words recorded in scripture, his stories, his actions, or more? Reading and rereading the scriptures helps us uncover the fullness of Jesus’ humanity. Could it be that we, too, would be most fully human if we lived the way of Jesus?
Prayer
O God of wonders, I marvel at the stories surrounding the birth of Jesus. It never ceases to amaze me that you chose to enter in and become fully human. Give me the courage to be most fully human as Jesus was when he walked among us. May the Spirit speak into my life guiding the way. Amen.
