“At this time a man named Simeon was living in Jerusalem. Simeon was a good man. He loved God and was waiting for him to save the people of Israel. God’s Spirit came to him and told him that he would not die until he had seen Christ the Lord.” – Luke 2:25-26 CEV
Once again, Christmas has arrived in a hurry and I’m not ready. There are still presents left to buy, baking to do, and oyster stew to make. But, also, there are those things of God that I promised to spend more time on this Christmas – more time in prayer and worship, more time in helping others, more time sitting quietly before the Christmas tree, and just appreciating the season. In the scramble of daily life, Christmas has come and I’m not fully prepared. But, then again, I don’t think anyone was that first Christmas either–except for Simeon.
Simeon was ready and waiting for the Messiah, but for everyone else, Christmas just happened in the midst of their busyness. Mary and Joseph were rushing to Bethlehem to fulfill a government order. The shepherds were busy working the night shift. The innkeeper was scrambling to find room for everyone. The magi were studying the stars. Even the animals were just doing what animals do when some couple shoved them away from their manger and put a baby there. No one was really ready, except for Simeon.
But that’s okay. Ready or not, here he comes. Jesus comes to each of us, whether we are prepared or not. Jesus comes on Christmas (and every other day of the year), breaking into our routines and bringing us “good news of great joy” as the angel proclaimed. When Simeon saw the baby Jesus, he praised God, saying, “God, you kept your promise…for my eyes have seen your salvation!” God has kept his promises to us, too, and we see God’s salvation in Jesus Christ, whether we are ready for Christmas or not.
God bless you this Christmas and every day!
Pastor Mark