Gospel of Luke Monday November 29th

Chapter Two Monday, November 29, 2010

“Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you now dismiss your servant in peace. For my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the sight of all people, a light for revelation to the Gentiles and for glory to your people Israel.” Luke 2:29-32

Take a few minutes to read this chapter and then see if you agree with me. There is only one word, “WOW!” That is the only way you can faithfully describe this blessing of Luke’s description.

It is the birth place of our Christian faith. We were built on Jewish roots, became obedient to the law, found our way through with the prophets, then we arrive at the birth of Jesus and everything changes.

Together we enter into the possibility of new life as Mary and Joseph stand near the manger cradle and gaze lovingly at their newborn child. The angels sing, the shepherds pay their honors, and the world begins to change. Slowly at first, but soon everything that has life and breath will be impacted by this obscure birth.

Things were already set in motion when Gabriel spoke to Mary. Then the child is actually born and presented in the temple for dedication on the eighth day of his life. A wise man named Simeon saw him, asked if he could hold him, and then offered his praise to God. Simeon was one of the first to recognize that the times were changing. History was shifting. The world was in the process of being transformed by an infant who would grow to “become strong, filled with wisdom, and with the grace of God.”

Let me ask you, can you imagine taking the infant Jesus in your arms? Can you imagine being in the position of Simeon? Would you be able to look at his tiny face and proclaim “My eyes have seen your salvation?”

Let me ask you, have you seen and experienced the salvation that Jesus provides? Take a moment to pray. Ask God to restore to you (or provide for you) the joy of salvation. Yesterday you were Theophilus, today you are Simeon. I wonder who you will be tomorrow. Jesus has a way of changing people!