Simeon . . . was righteous and devout, looking forward to Israel’s consolation, and the Holy Spirit was on him. —Luke 2:25
As far as we know, Simeon was simply a layman, a worshiper of God, who lived in Jerusalem. But he was “righteous”—a keeper of the law, a man of upstanding character. He was “devout”—a reverent follower of the Lord.
And he was waiting for the Messiah. He was watching for God to act. He was concerned not only with himself but with the people of his nation. His Spirit-led heart was marked by integrity, devotion, and a living, prayerful, faithful hope.
Most Jews of his time were going through the rituals, maybe doing righteous things, but not because they were truly righteous or devout or because they were motivated to follow God by a deep-seated love for Him.
Simeon was different. And you and I can be different—willing to stand out for what might make us look a little crazy. Not because we’re spiritually superior, but because we’re looking and waiting for the only hope that’s truly worth partying for.
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The First Songs of Christmas: A 31-Day Advent Devotional: Meditations on Luke 1 & 2 ©2018 Revived Hearts Foundation
Scripture taken from The CSB
Make it Personal
How has a desire to be accepted into culture hindered your relationship with Christ? What is the cost for choosing to live only for Him?