Merry Christmas, friends! Thanks for stopping by. If you haven’t read Encouragement for Today, The Wait is Over, check it out and witness Simeon’s introduction to Christ.
I love Christmas Eve. It’s my favorite part of Christmas. Anticipation fills the air as I wait to celebrate Christmas day with family and friends. I often wonder if Simeon felt the same excitement I do on Christmas Eve as he waited day after day for the arrival of the Messiah.
I also wonder on the days Christ didn’t arrive, if Simeon went home discouraged and disappointed. There have been many times that I have had a heavy heart during Christmas. And yet, as I participate in singing carols at the Christmas Eve service, my burden lifts and my heart rejoices. Perhaps it’s because I realize that no matter what I’m facing, Christ has already overcome it. It may not be today, but in God’s timing, He knows when my miracle will trump my mess. That gives me hope to hold on to.
Simeon must have clung to hope as well. He returned to the temple everyday anticipating… this could be the day!
When the day did arrived just has God promised, Simeon had this to say…
Luke 2: 29 “Lord, now you are letting your servant depart in peace,
According to your word;
(This is a proclamation of Simeon’s extraordinary faith. How would you rate your faith today; strong or weak? How can believing that God is working on your behalf build your faith and give your hope?)
30 For my eyes have seen Your salvation
(Your Salvation refers to the One who redeems his people from their sins. Have you seen God’s salvation? Have you allowed Christ to wash away your sins and make all things new?)
31 Which you have prepared before the face of all peoples,
32 A light to bring revelation to the Gentiles,
And the glory of your people Israel.”
(Christ’s salvation isn’t just for a few. It’s for all people of every tribe, tongue, and nation; including you)
Whatever your circumstance, you can experience the miracle of Christmas by opening your heart to Christ, the Savior of the World!
Wishing you peace and blessings this Christmas and New Year
Sharon Sloan says
Merry Christmas, Micca!
I love Luke 2 and all the wonderful characters. Simeon is a fave. Wow…what a privilege he was given. Waiting demonstrates our trust in the Lord. God honored Simeon’s faith and trust. Simeon probably never imagined he’d be written in the pages of history and truth in the Bible. He is probably still slapping his knee over that. 🙂
Thanks, Micca. Your devotion and post have me even more excited to read the account of Jesus’ birth in Luke to our cherubs tomorrow morning!
Blessed Christmas to you and yours!
Hugs,
Sharon
Monica Watkins says
Hi, Micca! This afternoon, I had the opportunity to read your Proverbs 31 Encouragement for Today devotional – The Wait is Over – from Christmas Eve. I realize I’m a couple of days late, but I’d just like to let you know that the post was indeed very encouraging. We all know that it sometimes gets challenging to hold onto our faith as we await the promises of God. Your post was a very timely reminder and faith booster for me.
Have a blessed new year!
Monica