Can I Really See?

"Lord, now You are letting Your servant depart in peace, According to Your word; For my eyes have seen Your salvation Which You have prepared before the face of all peoples, A light to bring revelation to the Gentiles, And the glory of Your people Israel." (Luke 2:29-32 NKJ)

We are privileged to enjoy this Christmas season with our pageants and family time, including food and fellowship. The pageants have been wonderful and the children have warmed our hearts with their antics and songs. They have reminded us of the child laid in a manger so long ago.

Yet, after the fact, we might ask ourselves: "Did I really see the Lord's salvation? Can I really see God's glory? Have I truly received his revelation?"

We know our eyes are open, but have we really seen what God intended us to see? We looked upon the manger scene. We looked at Mary and Joseph. We watched the shepherds and Magi arrive. We watched and listened as the angelic choir sang hosanna. We looked at the stable with a few sheep or cows. Yet, in this humble setting, did we see the salvation of God clothed in his glory?

Consider that this devout priest, Simeon, had not been to the stable in Bethlehem. He had not heard the angelic choir. He had not heard the witness of the shepherds. Yet, he was "waiting for the Consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him" (Luke 2:25 NKJ). Simeon allowed the Holy Spirit to guide his life (v. 26), so when God's son was presented for consecration in the Temple where Simeon served, he recognized the revelation of both the salvation and glory of God.

God's glorious salvation has been prepared and revealed to all the people groups of the earth. Those who receive the revelation of God's salvation can truly depart in peace, according to his Word. Praise his holy name!

Dear Father, thank you for revealing your salvation and glory to us through Jesus Christ. Empower us to truly see your glory with both our eyes and our hearts. I pray this in the name of your Son. AMEN

Be strong and courageous today truly seeing God's salvation,