A Light for Revelation to the Nations | Morning Routine Daily Devotional for December 26

“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.” – Luke 2:29-31 ESV

Today’s passage contains the words of a man named Simeon, who “was righteous and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him.” The Holy Spirit had revealed to him that he would see the “Lord’s Christ” before he died. Who was he looking for? The Christ, or Messiah—the royal king who would reign on David’s throne forever and bring salvation. Well, Simeon can check that one off the bucket list, because the Christ just showed up! 

Simeon then prophesies over Jesus, likening Him to ‘salvation’ and calling Him “a light for revelation to the Gentiles [or Nations], and for glory to your people Israel.” Jesus is a light to the nations! He brings salvation to all who believe in him! 

It’s the day after Christmas, and it’s a good time to remember Simeon’s words which took place a few days after the first Christmas: Jesus is the Messiah, the light to the nations! As we move from Christmas and begin thinking about the year ahead, let us be filled with the wonder and amazement of Simeon who found who he was looking for—the Christ. And let us commit to sharing the message of Christ with others in the new year. As recipients of the light to the nations, may your light shine!