The scriptural account of our Lord’s early life is relatively brief compared to the amount of space
devoted to His three years of public ministry and His death and resurrection. But even the little
which we do have of our Lord’s early life is framed in some fine surroundings, as "apples of gold
in pictures of silver." The Scriptures foretell His birth minutely, an angel heralds it, a multitude
of the heavenly host announces it, shepherds leave their toil and watching to confirm the good
news, wise men travel far in search of Him, a king and his courtiers are troubled on account of
Him, a holy woman gives thanks because of Him, and old Simeon has a revelation that He will
be spared to see Him before he dies.

Who was this old Simeon?

1. He was "just." He was one who was "in all things willing to live honestly," one whose
righteousness exceeded that of the scribes and Pharisees, for it was before God.

2. He was "devout." He had God ever in view. He remembered, served, and worshiped Him. He
prayed, meditated, and praised God and delighted in His ways and in His things.

3. He was "waiting for the consolation of Israel." He knew that all was out of sorts, not well with
his people. It was an evil day and he hoped in God and waited for His consolation. He expected
a deliverer.

4. "The Holy Ghost was upon him." He was under His influence, led by Him. But he also had a
revelation that more was in store for him. It was that he should see the Lord’s Christ. One day it
was made good to him. He came into the temple and there in his very arms was placed the infant
Saviour. He was not staggered at the astounding fact. He embraced Him and poured out his soul
in thankful praise:"Lord, now lettest Thou 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 2:25-35).

It has been beautifully said of this holy event, "The death that glorifies God has a song on the lips,
Christ in the arms, and heaven in the eye." May it be so with us!

"His banner over me was love" (Song of Solomon 2:4).