“Eight days later, when the baby was circumcised, he was named Jesus, the name given him by the angel even before he was conceived. Then it was time for their purification offering, as required by the law of Moses after the birth of a child; so his parents took him to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord. The law of the Lord says, “If a woman’s first child is a boy, he must be dedicated to the Lord.” So they offered the sacrifice required in the law of the Lord—“either a pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons.” 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 and had revealed to him that he would not die until he had seen the Lord’s Messiah. 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, “Sovereign Lord, now let your servant die in peace, as you have promised. I have seen your salvation, which you have prepared for all people. He is a light to reveal God to the nations, and he is the glory of your people Israel!” Jesus’ parents were amazed at what was being said about him. Then Simeon blessed them, and he said to Mary, the baby’s mother, “This child is destined to cause many in Israel to fall, and many others to rise. He has been sent as a sign from God, but many will oppose him. As a result, the deepest thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your very soul.””
Luke 2:21-35 NLT
The life of Jesus is the fulfillment of prophecy and part of the bigger plan of God. Simeon was devout, and he followed the Holy Spirit. Before he died, the Holy Spirit allowed him to see the Messiah, the salvation of God. His prophetic words showed the heart of God for the whole world to know the salvation of the Lord. The rich and powerful would be exposed, and the secret thoughts of many would be revealed. This would cause pain for those who loved Jesus, especially Mary (v.35). This is the mission of Christ, and He chose to be faithful and live out the way of justice and truth.
Following Jesus means following God’s way of justice and truth, and this is usually a much harder path. When we have power, we should to use it for God’s mission not our own ambition. We need to speak truth in love even if others turn against us. God’s truth brings freedom and life. We are called to stand up for justice and defend those in need, praying and working for His Kingdom to come. Your life is part of His mission. The purpose of your life is to live out the mission of Jesus.
What are some ways you can be working for God’s justice? “The purpose of your life is to live out the mission of Jesus” – how do you respond to this statement?
