The Birth of JesusSýnishorn

Simeon’s Prophecy to Mary

Mary and Joseph marveled at what Simeon said about Jesus. Did they know that Simeon had the Holy Spirit with him telling him Who Jesus was? Did they already know everything he told them about Jesus, or were they surprised that Jesus would be a light to the Gentiles and the glory of Israel? Regardless, they were about to find out that Simeon was not an ordinary man, but a prophet.

Simeon blesses both Joseph and Mary, then singles out Mary when he speaks this message: “Behold, this child is appointed for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign that is opposed (and a sword will pierce through your own soul also), so that thoughts from many hearts may be revealed” (Luke 2:34a–35). This may be the first time Mary and Joseph heard anything about what Jesus’ ministry would be like, and this was likely not the message they were hoping for, but this prophecy, like all revelations from God, would come true.

Jesus was rejected by the very elders and chief priests who should have welcomed the Messiah. Jesus declared them to be hypocrites who, since they denied Him, would be denied by God Himself. And yet Jesus raised up countless people to eternal life—everyone who believed in Him and called on His name was saved, and the same promise continues until the day when Jesus comes again to judge the earth and everyone on it.

Anna Speaks to the Crowds

We move from one faithful follower of God in the temple to another: Anna, an old widow blessed by the appearance of her Savior. She immediately goes throughout the temple and tells everyone there who was waiting for the redemption of Israel about Jesus, the Savior of the world.

Even before Jesus gave His disciples the Great Commission, word about this Savior spread. Angels shared the good news with shepherds, who shared it with anyone who would listen. The Holy Spirit shared the news with Simeon and Anna, who told everyone who was in the temple. And this message of salvation continues to spread some 2,000 years later, as those who believe in Jesus obey His call to share His message of salvation with the world.

The Real Story of Christmas

We hope you understand Jesus and the events surrounding His birth better after this devotional series. This story is not simply a story, but the story of God’s salvation come to earth! To witness the events of Jesus’ birth not covered in this series, click the link below to watch The Real Story of Christmas, a video designed to connect the Christmas story with Jesus’ adult ministry so that everyone who sees it may know that this baby in a manger is indeed the Son of God.

Share this video with your family and friends so that they might also experience the real story of Jesus’ birth!

Reflection

Do you react with the same excitement as Simeon and Anna about the salvation that Jesus brings? How can you share Jesus’ message with the people you know who need to hear it?