Venerable Simeon Recognized Jesus

As Simeon entered the temple, he was deeply impressed that the Infant being presented to the Lord was the One he had longed to see. To the astonished priest, he looked like a man filled with holy awe. He took the Child in his arms, while a joy he had never before felt entered his being. As he lifted the infant Savior toward heaven, he said,HH 20.1

“Lord, now You are letting Your servant depart in peace,
According to Your word;
For my eyes have seen Your salvation
Which You have prepared before the face of all peoples,
A light to bring revelation to the Gentiles,
And the glory of Your people Israel.”
HH 20.2

While Joseph and Mary stood by, amazed at Simeon’s words, he said to Mary, “Behold, this Child is destined for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign which will be spoken against (yes, a sword will pierce through your own soul also), that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”HH 20.3

Anna, a prophetess, also came in and confirmed Simeon’s testimony. Her face lighted up with glory, and she poured out her heartfelt thanks that she had been permitted to behold Christ the Lord.HH 20.4

These humble worshipers had studied the prophecies. But though the rulers and priests also had the precious prophecies, they were not walking in the way of the Lord, and their eyes were not open to see the Light of life.HH 20.5

Things are still this way. All heaven focuses its attention on events that religious leaders do not recognize. People acknowledge Christ in history, but they are no more ready today to receive Christ in the poor and suffering who plead for relief, in the righteous cause that involves poverty and scorn, than they were two thousand years ago.HH 20.6

As Mary looked at the Child in her arms and remembered the words the shepherds had spoken, she was full of bright hope. Simeon’s words called to her mind the prophetic message of Isaiah:HH 20.7

The people who walked in darkness
Have seen a great light;
Those who dwelt in the land of the shadow of death,
Upon them a light has shined. ...
For unto us a Child is born,
Unto us a Son is given;
And the government will be upon His shoulder.
And His name will be called
Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God,Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Isaiah 9:2-6HH 20.8