The Luke Project Vol 1- The Gospel in SongExemplo

A Light of Revelation 2:21-38

I thank God we no longer have to make sacrifices for purification and atonement! It’s strange to think about infant Jesus in the temple with His parents as they present their sacrifice, not knowing that their Son would one day be the final sacrifice for all. 

First, Mary and Jospeh have the Baby circumcised on the eighth day and name Him Jesus as they were instructed. They wait until the total number of days for Mary’s purification to end (Leviticus 12:1-4) and bring Him to the temple. Mary and Joseph present Jesus to the Lord and bring their sacrifice (Leviticus 12:8) because they want to follow the Law of the Lord strictly. 

While in the temple, they meet a righteous and devout man named Simeon. The Holy Spirit was upon him and revealed that he would see the Messiah with his own eyes before he dies. What a precious gift! Simeon takes Jesus into his arms and proclaims to Mary that he has seen salvation and he can now die a happy man! He speaks of the Child being a light of revelation to the Gentiles and the glory of God’s people, Israel. From the beginning, Christ’s sacrifice was meant for all people. Luke did not want the Gentiles to miss this point. 

Simeon goes on to say that Jesus will be appointed for the fall and rise of many. He would draw a dividing line. Some would not believe He was the Messiah and fall into destruction, being the ones that oppose Him. Many would believe and rise at the resurrection. Mary’s heart would eventually be grieved when her Son would be opposed by so many. This is shown in the text “and a sword will pierce even your own soul.” This is not the end though. One day Mary will see why He endured these things, at the resurrection of God’s people. 

Mary and Joseph were amazed by all that Simeon spoke! They were again hearing a prophecy about their Son. This probably strengthened their faith further by hearing from multiple people that Jesus is the Messiah! Simeon was saying Jesus is a light to the entire world!

Anna, a prophetess of God, approaches the Child next and begins to praise God. She continued speaking about Jesus to everyone who was looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem. I can’t even imagine their joy in realizing that this Boy was it! He is our redemption! No need for bloody sacrifices at every turn. Thank God that we are on the other side of the cross. Our sins have been forgiven if we ask and come with a repentant heart. Thank you Jesus!