Dear Ones:
The story of the meeting between Simeon, “…a just and devout” man living in Jerusalem, and Mary the mother of Jesus, is a panoramic picture of the grace and mercy of God. It was when the parents of Jesus brought the baby Jesus into the temple, to present him to the Lord, that the Spirit of God revealed to Simeon that this baby would become, “…Thy salvation, ….a light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of Thy people Israel.” (Luke 2:31, 32) Now, before we go further, let’s remember briefly the events that have led up to this moment.
Elizabeth, the cousin of Mary, has miraculously given birth to a child, who is the precursor of Christ, the very herald of His coming. Mary has given birth to the Lord Jesus, a perfect child in every way, even, “…a Savior which is Christ the Lord.” (Luke 2:11) Now, this child Jesus could not have been to Mary a greater treasure, responsibility, or privilege to have. The weight of His value cannot be measured. And the affection of a mother’s heart cannot be greater, than for that child. So Joseph and Mary bring the baby to Jerusalem to be circumcised the 8th day. They subsequently enter the temple, and there they are found by Simeon, who, being led by the Spirit of God, speaks to them concerning the child. What he has to say is very significant, as it pertains to rise and fall of peoples and nations. But then, he addresses the heart of Mary by saying, “…Yea, a sword shall pierce through thy own soul also, that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.” (Luke 2:35) Why such a declaration? The answer is very simple. To such a one who loves most, the pain of loss is greatest. I dare to say that no mother ever loved a child as did Mary. And because of this, no mother ever knew such loss as she did.
This is not the end of the story…for she will learn, as will the disciples, that Jesus will rise from the dead. He WILL come again. “Sorrow will endure for a night, but joy will come in the morning.” And so it is…those who love most often suffer loss to the greatest extent. But, hallelujah for the hope that we have in Christ. The sword may enter into the soul at present, but indeed, “…joy cometh in the morning.” Let us never forget it.
Love, Dad