If you've ever just witnessed an answer to prayer, then you know something of the joy that Simeon feels welling up inside of him, He had lived a fulfilled life. In the prophetic praise that follows, the child Jesus is equated with "your salvationNow there was a man in Jerusalem called Simeon, who was righteous and devout. He was waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not die before he had seen the Lord';s Christ." (Luke 2:25-26)
On taking Jesus into his arms he uttered a prayer, which is still used today in many Christian churches, and gave a prophecy alluding to the crucifixion.
In some Christian traditions, this meeting is commemorated on February 2
Simeon has been anticipating this day in the temple for some time.
"He was waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not die before he had seen the Lord';s Christ." (2:25-26)
He was been eagerly expecting to see the Messiah. Some are eagerly awaiting for a job reply right now others, for a financial blessing, others for business decisions.
But what is the "consolation of Israel"? "Consolation" it is "comforting "call to one';s side" as someone that will help, encourage, comfort." The Holy Spirit is referred to in the Gospel of John as the Paraklete (parakletos), meaning the “mediator, intercessor, and helper.
“In our passage Simeon is eagerly looking forward to the time when occupied, weary Israel and Jerusalem would receive her comfort and relief from the Lord.”
Moved by the Spirit, he went into the temple courts. When the parents brought in the child Jesus to do for him what the custom of the Law required, Simeon took Jesus in his arms and praised God, saying
Simeon';s Prophetic Praise (Luke 2:29-33)
Sovereign Lord, as you have promised,
You now dismiss your servant in peace.
For my eyes have seen your salvation,
Which you have prepared in the sight of all people,
A light for revelation to the Gentiles
And for glory to your people Israel.
The child';s father and mother marvelled at what was said about him." (2:28-33)
