Simeon’s prophecy
December 29 - Luke 2:22-35
When the parents brought the baby Jesus to Jerusalem, an old man, Simeon, led by the Holy Spirit, came to the temple to meet this child. Who is he? What is the meaning of what he says under the influence of the Spirit?
Simeon represents the entire Old Testament patiently waiting for the coming of the Messiah. The Old Testament, first at its beginning (Gen 3:15), speaks about a mysterious child of a woman that will crush the head of a serpent. Then it speaks about a prophet like Moses who will lead the people out of slavery (Deut 18:15). Finally, it prophesies the coming of a righteous king who will end wars and bring justice upon the earth (Is 11:1-9). This is the great mission of Israel. From this nation the Saviour of the world has come, and he is indeed the glory of Israel.
But although Jesus is the glory of Israel, his light is not only reserved for Israel. The Old Testament makes it clear that all nations will bask in the light that comes from Jerusalem (Is 60:1-3). Now, this light has finally come to the temple and is going to enlighten the entire world. Jesus is the Light of the world and anyone who comes to him will never walk in darkness.
But Simeon also predicts the reaction of Israel and the world to the coming of this light. Not everyone will be willing to accept Jesus and his Gospel. As the Gospel of John says, his own will not receive him and many prefer to remain in darkness (John 1:11; 3:19). Already here we see the looming shadow of the cross. The glory of Israel and the light of the nations will suffer for the salvation of the world.
Simeon singles out Mary, the mother of Jesus, as the one who will suffer with her son who would rejected by many and nailed to the cross. What was Mary thinking and feeling at that moment is not reported. But we can presume that she was deeply pondering those words in her heart. What is our reaction to the prophecy of Simeon? Do we prefer darkness to light or do we come out of darkness to bask in the warm rays of this wonderful light?