February 7, 2025
A Light to Lighten the Gentiles - Part 5
Luke 2:34-35
02/07/2025
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.'' (ESV)
Simeon's words about Jesus being the light for revelation to
the Gentiles and the glory of God's people comes with a price.
Many people rejected Jesus, in the same way that many people
today refuse to listen to the good news of salvation from sin and
eternal death for the sake of Christ.
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 (and a sword will pierce through your own soul
also), so that thoughts from many hearts may be
revealed.''
From this moment in the Temple, people were divided by the
news that the salvation of all people was revealed. Mary would
especially suffer as she saw her Son rejected, and eventually
crucified. Simeon's words would come true, many in Israel, many
today, rise to the glory of God, or fall in condemnation, as they
hear the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Are you numbered among those who have not rejected the gift
of salvation by grace through faith for the sake of Christ? Do
you desire to learn more, to see what Simeon saw in the infant
Jesus? Please join us each Sunday morning at 9:00 a.m. at
Trinity Lutheran Church to hear of God's love, grace, and mercy.
May our Lord grant you the peace which comes from knowing
your sins are forgiven. Amen.