day 2: Simeon (Lenten Devotion)

Day 2: Simeon

Scripture Reading: Luke 2:25-35

Beloved in Christ,

There is something deeply holy about a life that waits well. In a world that rushes, demands, and insists on immediate answers, Simeon stands before us as a quiet witness to the sacred discipline of patient hope. Scripture tells us that Simeon was righteous and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. His life was not marked by public miracles or great achievements, but by attentiveness — the kind of attentiveness that makes room for God. Simeon teaches us that faith is not always loud. Sometimes faith looks like years of ordinary obedience. Sometimes it looks like prayer whispered in the same place day after day. Sometimes it looks like trusting God’s promise even when nothing seems to be happening. Yet heaven sees such waiting not as inactivity, but as worship.

What is most remarkable is not only that Simeon waited, but that he recognized. Many saw the infant Jesus that day; only Simeon saw salvation. Others saw a child; he saw the Messiah. Others saw Mary and Joseph; he saw God’s redemption unfolding. Spiritual sight does not come from sharp eyes, but from a prepared heart. The Spirit had formed in him a sensitivity that allowed him to recognize God’s presence hidden in humility. And when he finally held the child, Simeon did not cling to life — he released it. Having seen Christ, he was ready for peace. His song reminds us that the deepest fulfillment of life is not found in accomplishments, possessions, or recognition, but in seeing Jesus for who He truly is. Yet Simeon’s joy was not shallow. He also spoke of suffering, of opposition, of a sword that would pierce Mary’s soul. True faith does not deny hardship; it trusts God through it. The same Savior who brings light also confronts darkness. The same Christ who saves also divides truth from falsehood. To recognize Him is to embrace both His glory and His cross.

Dear friends, Simeon’s life asks us a gentle question: Are we living in such a way that we would recognize Christ if He appeared quietly before us today? May we become people who wait with hope, listen for the Spirit, and keep our hearts soft enough to recognize Jesus — even when He comes in unexpected ways.

Prayer:

Jesus Christ, whose name indicates God's promise to save, I confess you as the cornerstone upon whom I depend. Move me from indifference to fully embracing you as the person to whom I belong and to whom I offer my allegiance. Jesus, I belong to you.

Grace and peace be with you.

Rev. Won Kim

Lead Pastor of RockSpring Church