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"And Joseph and His mother marveled at those things which were spoken of Him. Then Simeon blessed them, and said to Mary His mother, 'Behold, this Child is destined for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign which will be spoken against (yes, a sword will pierce through your own soul also), that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.'"
(Luke 2:33-35)
Christmas Day is only 10 days away! Are you ready to celebrate the King's birth? You are probably very busy and have numerous things to do. There are more gifts to buy and wrap, food to prepare, miles to travel, and a multitude of other things on your list. But remember to slow down and focus on the true reason for this celebration season. Let us continue to learn from the prophet Simeon as Luke records his message concerning Christ the newborn King.
In verse 33, Joseph and Mary marveled (thaumazo, present tense, kept on being amazed and marveling). What amazed them? The words that were spoken by Simeon about Jesus. This prophet of God was intentional in the very words he spoke concerning Jesus. This is a great way to respond when you have heard from God. I hope you and I will do the same and be sure to speak up about Jesus, and give Him praise for others to hear what we believe about Him.
Verse 34 says Simeon blessed them, and it is the same word used in verse 28 when he blessed God; the word is eulogeo, to say a good word (eulogy). But he directs the rest of his words to Mary. This Child Jesus is destined, or it will happen, that many will fall, and many will rise because of Him. What does that mean? Robert Stein writes, "Luke may have been referring to two separate groups, one of which falls (negative) and the other of which rises (positive). The latter appears more likely and indicates that there is a double significance to Jesus' ministry. For the humble and poor it is positive, salvation; for the haughty and rich it is negative, judgment." (Stein, R. H. (1992). Luke (Vol. 24, p. 117))
The sign that will be spoken against is the life of Jesus in general—He would be spoken against then and today. His life was rejected and continues to be rejected. I believe the primary sign is the resurrection. Early on it was spoken against in Matthew 28:12-15 when the religious leaders promoted the lie that the disciples came and stole the body of Jesus.
Simeon prophesies in verse 35 that Mary would suffer because of the rejection of her Son. He uses the analogy of a sword piercing the soul. Her Son would be crucified in the prime of His life at 33 years of age. People's thoughts are revealed based on their reaction to Jesus. If we believe Him, then our lives will demonstrate that belief, but if we reject Him, then our actions will reveal those thoughts as well.
Here are some practical ways we can be intentional this Christmas Season in our relationship with the Lord Jesus:
- Decide today that you will make the effort to focus more on Christ this Season. Remember that there would not be Christmas were it not for Jesus Christ.
- Worship Jesus in your heart, your home, and your church. Don't neglect your quiet times with the Lord in this busy season. Be sure to go to a Christmas Eve service. Keep your eyes on Jesus!
- Speak the name of Jesus this Christmas Season, and tell others all He has done for you.
Let us be like Simeon and be intentional this Christmas Season in how we live our lives, in the praise we give to God, and in the very words we use in speaking to others. Let us not be afraid or hesitant to speak His name and tell the good news to others.
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