Simeon’s desire

Author Darlene J. Conard

Simeon knew by foreknowledge that Jesus was born. I have no doubts an atmospheric shift emerged. He knew that it was time to go to the temple.

I can imagine Simeon holding the Savior in his arms, just a little bundle but a powerful manifestation of God. Simeon lived an old age only to depart from life with the promise of seeing the Messiah! I can visualize hot tears surfacing. Perhaps he could only stand in awe. His eyes beheld the promise he so longed for. Cradled in his arms lay a pure lamb. A lamb that would break the barrier to mercy and grace.

I’ve wondered what Simeon’s experience would be like. For a moment I imagined him savoring the moment embracing a supernatural, holy sovereignty.

The small bundle struck fear in the hearts of kings. They had it all wrong! He wasn’t their usual king. He couldn’t be eliminated. Authorities couldn’t perceive the spiritual side of God’s kingdom. One day this child would become a man and in time become a sacrifice for all. (Luke 2: 24-38)

“Lord, You are a witness before me that I must see You in a manifestation promised to redeem my people from all sin and evil. Messiah, You have made yourself as one of us to teach us humility and give us power over infirmity prevailing over darkness.”

And, behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the same man was just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was upon him. And it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord’s Christ. And he came by the Spirit into the temple: and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him after the custom of the law, Then took he him up in his arms, and blessed God, and said, ^“Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word: For mine eyes have seen thy salvation, Which thou hast prepared before the face of all people; A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel.” (Luke 2: 25-32)

While envisioning this in my mind I wept. He would now be able leave earth in peace. He didn’t give up hope. He literally held God in his arms. Perhaps he even heard the angels singing.