At that time there was a man in Jerusalem named Simeon. He was righteous and devout and was eagerly waiting for the Messiah to come and rescue Israel. The Holy Spirit was upon him and had revealed to him that he would not die until he had seen the Lord’s Messiah. That day the Spirit led him to the Temple. So when Mary and Joseph came to present the baby Jesus to the Lord as the law required, Simeon was there. He took the child in his arms and praised God, saying, “Sovereign Lord, now let your servant die in peace, as you have promised. I have seen your salvation, which you have prepared for all people. He is a light to reveal God to the nations, and he is the glory of your people Israel!” Jesus’ parents were amazed at what was being said about him. Then Simeon blessed them, and he said to Mary, the baby’s mother, “This child is destined to cause many in Israel to fall, and many others to rise. He has been sent as a sign from God, but many will oppose him. As a result, the deepest thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your very soul.”
Luke 2:25‭-‬35 NLT

Before the Holy Spirit came at Pentecost, He was upon Simeon, and revealed the Christ child to him, rewarding his faithfulness.

The angel Gabriel had appeared to Zechariah, the priest, to tell him the Messiah was on the way, and his own son would be the prophesied forerunner. How many years had he and his wife, Elizabeth, waited and prayed for His coming? Faithful, though their prayers had not resulted in the children they asked and believed for.

Mary and Joseph waited expectantly, with other devout Jews, for the Promised One. But what a blessed surprise to receive the visit from the angel Gabriel, who announced Jesus’ birth!

Shepherds at Migdal Eder longed for the Deliverer, as they cared for the sacrificial lambs around Bethlehem. And then angels bursting on the starry night announcing the good news that the Messiah was finally born! Rushing to see that which was told to them – the Baby in the Manger, that would save His people from their sins.

For 2000 years, many have likewise waited and prayed for Jesus’ return. We are now seeing many prophecies fulfilled that alert us to His imminent return. One day, those who love His appearing will see Him coming again in the clouds! ❤ Even so, Lord Jesus, come!

Are you ready?

Jesus replied, “I tell you the truth, unless you are born again, you cannot see the Kingdom of God.”
John 3:3 NLT

Jesus told him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me.
John 14:6 NLT

Then Jesus said to his disciples, “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross, and follow me.
Matthew 16:24 NLT

And so the Baby in the manger, the Lamb of God, was sacrificed for the sin of the world, becoming the Bridge to God for all who will come.