READING:
One-year plan: Deuteronomy 18-21, Luke 2:21-52
Two-year plan: Exodus 40, Matthew 26:17-30
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His name was Simeon, and the Holy Spirit had promised him he would not die before he had seen the Messiah. When he finally did see the Messiah, his immediate response was to praise God and erupt in prayer. In particular, he prayed, “Now, Master, you can dismiss your servant in peace, as you promised. For my eyes have seen your salvation” (Luke 2:29-30). Simeon could now rest in peace after experiencing the fulfillment of God’s promises and seeing the Messiah.
I read this text today, and I’m reminded of the number of believers I’ve been with as pastor who faced the reality of death. They were not waiting to see the Messiah quite like Simeon was, but they had instead already met Him through faith. Their faith was so genuine and deep, however, that they could face death without fear; indeed, they looked forward to being with their Redeemer. Sweet have been the moments I’ve shared with trusting believers who departed in peace because they knew they were in the Lord’s hands.
On the other hand, painful have been the times when I’ve seen folks die without such confidence. Knowing the Messiah makes all the difference in life and in death.
PERSONAL REFLECTION: Does your faith help you face death?
PRAYER: “God, let me depart in peace at the appropriate time.”
TOMORROW’S READINGS:
One-year plan: Deuteronomy 22-25, Luke 3
Two-year plan: Leviticus 1-3, Matthew 26:31-46
