Scripture: Luke 2:27-33
Led by the Spirit, Simeon went into the temple area. Meanwhile, Jesus’ parents brought the child to the temple so that they could do what was customary under the Law. Simeon took Jesus in his arms and praised God. He said, “Now, master, let your servant go in peace according to your word, because my eyes have seen your salvation. You prepared this salvation in the presence of all peoples. It’s a light for revelation to the Gentiles and a glory for your people Israel.” His father and mother were amazed by what was said about him.
Thought for the Day: The word we translate as salvation can mean delivered, but it also describes healing and wholeness. Simeon sees in Jesus God’s healing and wholeness, a gift for all peoples. In Western Christianity, we have this tendency to associate salvation with spiritual matters only, but that ignores the richness of this word and the work Jesus did throughout his ministry. He was concerned about bringing wholeness to the whole person. Jesus didn’t ignore physical needs because he was obsessed with spiritual needs. He encountered broken people – physical, emotional and spiritual brokenness. He never healed one part while neglecting the rest of the person. Instead, his life brought to people a spirit of health that touched every corner of their lives. As Simeon first encountered the baby Jesus, he glimpsed the fullness of God’s Kingdom that was contained within this child – a Kingdom that transformed individuals and societies at every level imaginable…and a few that we probably have yet to imagined.
Prayer: Come, O Healer of All Life! Come and move among us and within us for the sake of our transformation. May our lives forever healed by you become a witness to your Kingdom salvation intended for all. Amen.
THIS SUNDAY
One Service Sunday
Camel Walk at 10:00am
Worship at 10:30am
Epiphany Sunday
