Steven A. Bush - December 26, 2021
We Now May Depart in Peace
When Mary and Joseph took Jesus to Jerusalem 40 days after His birth, they encountered a devout man in the temple named Simeon. This man prayed and prophesied over the Infant Messiah and Luke 2:20-32 describes it like this: "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!'” (NLT) We marvel that Simeon beheld Christ--even while holding Him in his own arms--and as a result could depart this world in peace just as the Holy Spirit had promised. Likewise, we too are blessed to behold Christ in our heart of hearts because He has taken us into His own arms and declared that we are His! When, therefore, our time comes to depart this world, we may likewise do so in peace. How so? Because the Prince of Peace has made it possible through His redemptive work on the cross, purchasing our peace with His own precious blood. This peace surpasses all understanding because the love that bought it is truly beyond all comprehension! May this Peace be yours to the absolute fullest!