SIMEON WHO BLESSED GOD FOR INFANT JESUS
The figure of Simeon, as described by Luke in his Gospel (Lk 2:22-35), is a powerful testament to faith, righteousness, and the fulfillment of God’s promises. While historical details about Simeon are sparse, some scholars have suggested that he might be Shimeon, the son of Hillel and the father of Gamaliel, and a president of the Sanhedrin. Nonetheless, Luke’s depiction provides profound insights into his character and his encounter with the infant Jesus.
1) Simeon Lived in Jerusalem
Simeon, a holy and elderly man filled with the Holy Spirit, resided in Jerusalem (Lk 2:25). Jerusalem, often referred to as the Holy City of God, holds significant spiritual importance. The psalmist extols the city’s sacredness, saying, “Beautiful for situation, the joy of the whole earth, is mount Zion, on the sides of the north, the city of the great King” (Ps 48:2, 9).
2) Simeon Was Righteous
Righteousness, a fundamental attribute of God, is characterized by ethical conduct and integrity. Leviticus 19:35 commands, “You shall do no wrong in judgment, in measures of length or weight or quantity.” Throughout the Bible, figures such as Noah, Abraham, Job, and Joseph (Jesus’ foster father) are highlighted as paragons of righteousness. Simeon’s righteousness positioned him as a worthy recipient of God’s promise.
3) Simeon Was Devout
To be devout is to be deeply pious and reverent towards God. Simeon’s presence in the Temple was a testament to his devotion, reflecting a life committed to worship and adherence to God’s commands. His devoutness mirrored that of other faithful servants of God who consistently sought to honor and glorify Him.
4) Simeon Was Awaiting the Consolation of Israel
Israel’s history is marked by a longing for liberation from foreign oppression, having endured domination by Assyrians, Babylonians, Persians, Greeks, and Romans. The Israelites yearned for a deliverer like Moses who would bring them freedom and lead them to peace and prosperity. This hope is captured in Isaiah 61:1-2, which Jesus Himself quoted: “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor” (Lk 4:18-19).
5) The Holy Spirit Was Upon Simeon
The presence of the Holy Spirit upon Simeon signified a special purpose: to prophesy about Jesus and to witness to Joseph, Mary, and all those present in the Temple. In the New Testament, receiving the Holy Spirit through baptism empowers believers to witness Christ in their lives. Simeon, who was advanced in age and perhaps as old as 113 years according to the “Gospel of Nativity,” had patiently awaited the fulfillment of the Holy Spirit’s promise to see the Messiah.
Simeon’s Encounter with Jesus
Simeon received a divine revelation that he would not die before he had seen the Lord’s Christ. Upon seeing Jesus, he took the infant in his arms and blessed God, declaring, “Lord, now you are letting your servant depart in peace, according to your word; for my eyes have seen your salvation that you have prepared in the presence of all peoples, a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and for glory to your people Israel” (Lk 2:29-32). This moment was a fulfillment of the promise and a testimony to God’s faithfulness.
REFLECTION
As Christians, Simeon’s life and encounter with Jesus provide a profound lesson in faithfulness, righteousness, and devotion. His example calls us to live righteously and devoutly, awaiting the fulfillment of God’s promises with patient hope. Just as Simeon was blessed to see the Messiah, we are blessed to receive Jesus in the Holy Eucharist and are called to bear witness to Him in our lives.
Simeon’s story reminds us that God’s promises are sure and His timing perfect. Our role is to remain faithful, devout, and righteous, trusting that God’s plans for us are good and will come to fruition. As we live out our faith, let us hold fast to the hope of salvation and the promise of eternal life, rejoicing in the assurance that God’s faithfulness endures forever.