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Simeon seeing clearlySunday, December 26, 2004
Luke 2:21-36 Joseph and Mary took him to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord, and to offer a sacrifice in keeping with what is said in the Law of the Lord. Now there was a man in Jerusalem called Simeon, who was righteous and devout. He was waiting for the Consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. Simon took Jesus in his arms and praised God saying, "My eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the sight of all people!" Then Simeon said to Mary, "This child is destined to cause the falling and rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be spoken against, so that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your own soul too."
Will those who reject Jesus turn against her as well? Who might those people be? Their own neighbors? Their families? Joseph and Mary already tasted some of that rejection. Will it get worse as Jesus grows up? Mary might be new to this kind of thinking, but Simeon has been at it for a long time. He no longer thinks much about his own comfort or security. His perspective, broadened by suffering and waiting, encompasses the world. And Simeon speaks what he hears from God. He rejoices because he discerns what Jesus will change. Suffering will always be with us, but Jesus will bring healing that cuts through that suffering. Like a knife through butter. I can buy salve for dry skin at Osco Drug; I receive salvation for my selfishness only through Jesus. Before Jesus that was not possible; without him it is not possible. That is what Simeon sees, and that is what he says. Lord, thank you for the clarity that comes from seeing life through the eyes you provide for me. Open them wider; let me see all there is for me to see.
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Simeon is maybe 80, and Mary might be 15 years old. Simeon tells Mary not only that her son will create great conflict among their people but that she herself will be pierced by a "sword." Will Jesus hurt his own mother? So young, she cannot imagine such a thing.