The devotion for Friday, the second week of Advent, comes from Michael Hoy's, "Light of Grace: Devotions for Advent."
Master, now you are dismissing your servant in peace, according to your word, for my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the presence of all peoples, a light for revelation to the gentiles and for glory to your people Israel.
Luke 2:29-32 NRSV
Author's Reflection
Simeon was a man who had inside him both knowledge and faith. He was deeply aware of the reality of his own death, but he was still longing and looking for "the consolation of Israel" (Luke 2:25). Guided by the Spirit, he was overwhelmed with peace when the Child was there in the temple. It prompted him to sing this song of peace that now shines with faith in God's Son for the salvation of all people.
This is not simply a word for the elderly. We don't really know how old Simeon was, only that he was eyeing the prospectis of death. But like Simeon, our own eyes may see the frightening realities that spell fear in our lives while also looking firmly in trust to our Lord, who is faithful to his promises. The child comes into our lives bringing that assurance of peace and focusing our eyes on his grace. For now, it is no longer a matter of how old we are, but how new. In the face of all darkness, we get to sing a new song of peace.
Author's Prayer
Lord, give us a new song of peace in the coming of the Child of promise. Amen.
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