Today’s Scripture: Luke 2:27, NLT- “That day the Spirit led him to the Temple. So when Mary and Joseph came to present the baby Jesus to the Lord as the law required, Simeon was there. He took the child in his arms and praised God, saying,”
There is something about the story of Simeon in Luke 2:25-35 that pierces my soul. Every time I read this story, it is impressed upon me that the Holy Spirit will lead us to where we are fulfilling God’s will.
I just hope and pray to be aware of the Holy Spirit’s leading and to be courageous enough to act. Let us review what we do know about this story that occurred when Jesus was only 40 days old. Mary and Joseph were following the laws of Moses and had taken the baby Jesus to the Temple in Jerusalem for purification and dedication.
In Luke 2:25 we are told “At that time there was a man in Jerusalem named Simeon. He was righteous and devout and was eagerly waiting for the Messiah to come and rescue Israel. The Holy Spirit was upon him.” (NLT) Wouldn’t it be nice that if the only things that people remembered about our lives was that we were righteous, devout, and with the Holy Spirit?
Luke 2:26 lets us know “It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not die before he had seen the Lord’s Messiah.” (NIV) Simeon had been prepared well before this day because he had communicated with the Holy Spirit.
I am always challenged by Luke 2:27 to make sure I am listening to the Holy Spirit so that I am led to be and do as God desires. I want to make sure that I ask the Holy Spirit to lead me. Today, LORD, lead me with Your Spirit to be where Your will and kingdom want me. Help me to complete Your will.
Do you think Simeon was aware that God planned for him to meet Jesus that day? Do you think Simeon had any idea that by following the prompting of the Spirit, his name would appear in the Holy Scriptures, and he would help millions of people over thousands of years know that Jesus was the Messiah?
What if Simeon had hit the snooze button or found something else to do that day? If he was head of the royal Sanhedrin as some propose, then surely, he would have an important meeting to attend. The 40th day after Jesus’ birth only came once. I am sure Mary and Joseph were at the temple for only a few short minutes or hours that day. Where was Simeon? He was there.
Do you and I realize what our faithfulness can do for others? God’s plan was Simeon and Simeon showed up. According to the Great Commission you and I are the plan as well. Jesus left for us this same Holy Spirit that led Simeon. I am praying now that we hear and do as He directs, Are you on high alert for the Holy Spirit’s prompting for you?
Today’s Prayer: Yahweh, thank You for Your Spirit. Reveal Yourself and Your plan for me. Speak clearly LORD. Continue to prepare my heart, my soul, and my mind for what You have already planned for me. Please give me full nourishment of Your daily bread that will prepare me for that day, for that hour You intend for me to serve Your purpose. Come Holy Spirit and lead me to where I am to be and prompt me to do God’s will. Amen.
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