Knowing The Word in Luke 2:24-35, Simeon

Nothing else is known historically about Simeon other than this one mention in Luke. Here we see more Holy Spirit activity as the Spirit answers his prayers about seeing the Messiah before he dies. What strikes readers most is what he says to Mary: “and a sword will pierce your soul too.”

25 Now there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon, and this man was righteous and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. 26 And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord's Christ. 27 And he came in the Spirit into the temple, and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him according to the custom of the Law,28 he took him up in his arms and blessed God and said,

29 “Lord, now you are letting your servant depart in peace, according to your word; 30 for my eyes have seen your salvation 31 that you have prepared in the presence of all peoples, 32 a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and for glory to your people Israel.”

33 And his father and his mother marveled at what was said about him. 34 And Simeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother, “Behold, this child is appointed for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign that is opposed 35 (and a sword will pierce through your own soul also), so that thoughts from many hearts may be revealed.”

Prayer: Lord, would you give me a faith like Simeon’s that is focused on Jesus as my Messiah, my Savior who saves me. Amen.