Waiting to See Salvation

Simeon teaches us what it means to wait with God at the centre. Luke says he was righteous and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel. His life was marked by expectation. He was not waiting for vague improvement. He was waiting for God's promised salvation. When Simeon sees the child Jesus, he takes Him in his arms and blesses God. In LUKE 2:30 (ESV) he says, "my eyes have seen your salvation." That is a remarkable statement because Simeon is holding a baby. The fullness of Christ's saving work has not yet unfolded publicly. The cross is still ahead. The resurrection is still ahead. Yet by faith, Simeon sees salvation in the One God has sent. Faith recognizes what the world may overlook. Many people likely saw Mary, Joseph, and the child without understanding who was before them. Simeon sees by the Spirit. His waiting has not made him dull. It has made him ready.

Waiting can make a heart bitter if it is not anchored in God. It can make people suspicious, cynical, and closed. But waiting with faith can sharpen longing. It can teach the soul to look for the Lord more than for easy circumstances. ISAIAH 52:10 (ESV) says that all the ends of the earth shall see the salvation of our God. Simeon sees that this salvation is not only for Israel but a light for revelation to the Gentiles and glory for Israel. The salvation of God is bigger than small human categories. If you are waiting, ask what waiting is doing in you. Is it narrowing your heart, or is it deepening your hope in the Lord? Are you waiting for God Himself, or only for relief? Simeon's joy was not in finally getting a private preference fulfilled. His joy was in seeing Christ. May our waiting become that pure. May we long not only for changed circumstances, but for clearer sight of the Savior.