When Mary and Joseph held the baby Jesus, they only had a glimpse of His divine purpose. Here in a manger the glory of God laid in seed form- lots of potential yet undeveloped. Unkown to anyone, in this little baby would rest the destiny of mankind.
The angels had proclaimed Him as the Savior, the promised Messiah - the Christ of God had been born. The prophet Simeon was in the temple in Jerusalem when Mary and Joseph brought their newborn there to make an offering to the Lord. Simeon rejoiced when he saw the child and declared Him to be, "A Light of revelation to the Gentiles (Isaiah 42:6-9), and the glory of Your people Israel (Heb. 1:3)" --Luke 2:32.
Simeon continued to speak to the new parents saying, "Behold, this Child is appointed for the fall and rise of many in Israel, and for a sign to be opposed-- and a sword (the words He will speak --Heb. 4:12-13) will pierce even your own soul (Mary)-- to the end that thoughts from many hearts may be revealed."
This innocent, helpless child would shake the world. His words would cut into the heart of man and bring them low. From this place the words of this Child would also cause them to rise into a new identity, inheritance, and calling directly linked to heaven itself. For many others, this little Child would be a force to be controlled and opposed. For them, His words would be such a threat to their lifestyle, status, and position that they declared Him their enemy -- someone to resist, reject, and persecute.
May we all, with willing hearts, hold Him near and allow Him to accomplish ALL He desires in our lives. His love and goodness move us to such surrender and trust.
