Deeper Reflection
At that time, Simeon was an old man since he was ready to leave this world after seeing the Christ child (vv.26, 29).³⁸ The Holy Spirit led Simeon to encounter the Christ child and inspired him to speak words that revealed fundamental truths about Jesus (vv.29-35).First, Jesus Christ (or “Jesus the Messiah”) is the salvation that God has prepared “in the presence of all peoples, a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and for glory to [God’s] people Israel” (vv.30-32). In other words, the salvation that God offers in Jesus is available to all peoples and all ethnicities. Second, the Messiah’s coming had been eagerly anticipated by Israel and would bring division in the nation (“the fall and rising of many in Israel”, v.34). Some will be judged and others blessed, depending on how they respond to Jesus. Although people are blessed when they receive Jesus, many will still reject him and have Him crucified (“a sign that is opposed”, v.34). In fact, Simeon, predicted that Mary, the mother of Jesus, would suffer much anguish (“a sword will pierce through your own soul also”, v.35) – a probable reference to her witnessing the cruel crucifixion and death of Jesus on the cross more than 30 years later. The cross will one day be the sign that brings focus to the people’s response to Jesus’ atoning sacrifice for the sins of the world. The outcome is that “thoughts from many hearts may be revealed” (v.35) – do the people believe in God’s Anointed One for the forgiveness of their sins and the salvation of their souls?

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³⁸ Verse 25 tells us that Simeon was a model of Jewish piety (“righteous and devout”) – a man who eagerly awaited the coming of Israel’s Messiah (“the consolation of Israel”) and was anointed by God’s Spirit (“the Holy Spirit was upon him”).