Light of the WorldSample

After Mary’s 40-day purification, one can only imagine the anticipation Mary and Joseph must have felt as they brought their firstborn son, Jesus, to be presented at the Temple. This day was significant for many reasons, but it wasn’t just about obeying the law—it marked the beginning of Jesus fulfilling the law.

To understand the day’s importance, it helps to know what was required by the Law of Moses. Mary was to offer a sacrifice for her purification after the “period of uncleanness” (Leviticus 12:6-8) and present her firstborn son to the Lord (Exodus 13:2), a reminder of God’s deliverance of Israel during Passover. To "redeem" their firstborn from temple service, parents were to pay five shekels (Numbers 18:15-16). The child still belonged to God, but could return home—redeemed.

During their visit, Mary and Joseph meet Simeon and Anna. Simeon, described as “righteous and devout,” was waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit had promised he would see the Messiah. Anna, a prophetess, was always in the Temple, worshiping with prayer and fasting.

Simeon took Jesus in his arms and blessed God, proclaiming:

“Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you may now dismiss your servant in peace. For my eyes have seen your salvation, a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of your people Israel.”

Simeon then spoke to Mary about Jesus’ mission, foretelling both His purpose and the pain she would endure: “A sword will pierce your own soul too.”

Though Mary knew Jesus’ purpose, she wouldn’t fully grasp this “piercing of the soul” until much later. That day, Mary offered a sacrifice, but the ultimate sacrifice Jesus would one day make—for her and for all of us—was beyond anything she could have imagined. As the spotless Lamb and “firstborn of all creation,” Jesus fulfilled what we could never earn on our own: redemption.

Question:
In Simeon’s words, we see that salvation through Jesus extends to all people. Do you see everyone around you as a candidate for heaven?

Application:
As you go about this season, remember that no one is beyond redemption. Pray for someone you may have written off and ask God to give you another opportunity to share His love with them.