Aged Simon’s hopes were flickering – will I see the Salvation of my Nation, will I see the Saviour. Fervent hope kept his eyes keen, though others younger had dimmed hope and dimmed sight. How true, that hope not only makes heart grow fonder, but also makes eyes sharp and bright. It was another busy day in Jerusalem’s Temple – religious business as usual.
Poor on long queues hoping for their turn for a wisp of incense but the rich on the express line.
On the poor line for offerings, was a young couple, man with a turtle dove – poor man’s offering for dedication. Damsel with a baby on hand, wrapped in swaddling clothing, now one-month old.
Yet He looked wise and knowing as His mom peered at His face, seeing distinction only a mom could see. Keeping their slot intact was Joseph’s arduous job, pushing away jostlers, who had made the Temple, House of Prayer into a den of robbers. One day the Baby would literally turn tables on the merchandisers – but that had a 33 year wait.
Surprise Heaven’s Halo
It was their turn at the front. Unbeknown to the poor unknown couple, heaven had sent an advanced party. That was Simeon, the visionary. Holy Spirit nudged Simeon and Simeon saw with opened eyes, shining halo over the Infant in the damsel’s hands.
Halo was so radiant and the couple was so poor. Is that how, heaven marks distinction that earth does not recognise?
Luke 2:25-35 And there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon; and this man was righteous and devout, looking for the consolation of Israel; and the Holy Spirit was upon him. (26) And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ.
Mine Eye Have Seen
(27) And he came in the Spirit into the temple; and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to carry out for Him the custom of the Law, (28) then he took Him into his arms, and blessed God, and said, (29) “Now Lord, You are releasing Your bond-servant to depart in peace, According to Your word; (30) For my eyes have seen Your salvation, (31) Which You have prepared in the presence of all peoples, (32) A light of revelation to the gentiles, and the glory of Your people Israel.”
(33) And His father and mother were amazed at the things which were being said about Him.
(34) And Simeon blessed them and said to Mary His mother, “Behold, this Child is appointed for the fall and rise of many in Israel, and for a sign to be opposed-- (35) and a sword will pierce even your own soul--to the end that thoughts from many hearts may be revealed.”
A Saviour has to find Bethlehem in each one of us. Sword pierces our old nature, in other to make room for Christ Birth. Will you say yes?
Isle of Smiles that once was
Long Long ago, there was
a Shiny Pearl
In the Indian Ocean
beauties all awhirl
Emerald green and
brightest flowers
Sunshine smiles and
blue green rivers
Time stands still and
generations befriend
Wonder of a world
away -from fast trend
Races blend in beauty,
brilliance her style
Then arrived kinds &
tribes wild and vile
Lanka’s kith and kin fled
in angst and haste
Marauders occupied
leaving bad taste
Aged before her time
she limps and groans
Give me a Physician,
to heal all my woes