This article is part of a series called “12 Days of Christmas: A daily study guide to bring the Savior into the season.” See the full list of days in the study guide and learn more about how it’s formatted here.
It had been revealed to a devout and just man named Simeon by the power of the Holy Ghost that “he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord’s Christ” (Luke 2:26). The scriptures then say that “he came by the Spirit into the temple” and took the baby Jesus in his arms when Mary and Joseph brought Jesus there “after the custom of the law” (verse 27).
Simeon blesses God and speaks to the Lord, saying, “now lettest thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word: For mine eyes have seen thy salvation, which thou hast prepared before the face of all people; A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel” (Luke 2:29–32).
What can we learn from these verses?
- Simeon was prepared to meet Christ through the Spirit. Mary and Joseph were bringing Jesus to the temple because they were following the custom of the law. Simon was ready for this moment. Because he “came by the Spirit into the temple,” he was physically available to see Christ when the time came. But he also must have been spiritually ready to be able to recognize who this baby was. His example is a great reminder of the value of always being spiritually prepared so that we can offer our spiritual gifts to others whenever they are needed.
- Simeon had to wait in faith. It’s not clear how long Simeon waited to see the baby Jesus, but in verse 29 when he asks the Lord to now let him now depart, it seems that he may have been waiting for some time and was now at peace. During that period of waiting, Simeon may not have had any idea of when Christ would come—he just had to trust that He would, eventually, come. His faithful patience can be a strength to us when we are waiting for blessings or answers in our lives because his story reminds us that no matter how long we wait, the Lord will fulfill his promises.
Quote: “We never know when this day is going to be our last day. … We should all be in the place of Simeon at the end of the each day and at the end of our life” (Eric D. Huntsman, “How Simeon can help us find peace amid grief of loved ones lost at Christmas”).
Ponder: How can I rely on the Spirit and on my faith when I am waiting for something?
Read: “How Simeon can help us find peace amid grief of loved ones lost at Christmas,” All In podcast excerpt
Watch: “The Christ Child Is Presented at the Temple”
