New Testament Baptist Church

Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word: For mine eyes have seen thy salvation, Which thou hast prepared before the face of all people; A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel. -LUKE 2:29-32

After several years of marriage, a well-known actress attempted to cook a Christmas dinner for her family. Before serving the meal, she sat her husband and son down at the table and said, “If it doesn’t look good, I don’t want you to say a thing. Just get up from the table, and we’ll go to the nearest restaurant for dinner.” A few moments later when she walked into the dining room with her turkey, she found her husband and son already standing with their coats and hats on.

It’s amazing how our expectations control our conduct! Luke 2:25-35 records the story of a man whose faith in the coming Messiah changed the way he lived his life. It tells us about Simeon-a man who was waiting for the Saviour. It was revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not die until He had seen Jesus Christ.

It was Jewish custom that parents would bring their new baby to the temple for a time of sacrifice and dedication to God. When Mary and Joseph, who were rejoicing in the birth of their Son and Saviour, brought baby Jesus to the temple, they met Simeon. When the old man saw the child, he took the baby up into his arms and said, “For mine eyes have seen thy salvation.” Simeon was a man of faith; he was patiently waiting for the Messiah. His expectations were based on God’s promise to him.

Simeon had faith that God would keep His promises concerning a Saviour for the redemption of mankind. Simeon’s expectant hope in the Messiah cause him to live a life of meaning. His outlook determined his outcome. What are you looking for this Christmas? If you are looking for the Lord you will never be disappointed.

AMOS 7-9 & REVELATION 8

a daily WORD by PAUL CHAPPELL