Waiting on the Helper - February 2009

Throughout the existence of the tribe, the people had been waiting. The promises of their God and the words of their prophets had long told of a coming Helper. One said, “‘For a child will be born to us, a son will be given to us; And the government will rest on His shoulders; And His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace’” (Isaiah 9:6). Another foretold, “‘In His days Judah will be saved, And Israel will dwell securely; And this is His name by which He will be called, “The LORD our righteousness”’” (Jeremiah 23:6). Centuries had passed since the last of these prophecies had been given, and some of the promises had existed millennias before. How long was this people supposed to wait? [As a conquered people, the small nation was overrun and oppressed by their conquerors.] They were desperate for their promised Helper.
Simeon was one of those waiting. He was “righteous and devout,” and patiently trusted in the Author of the ancient promises. Simeon never lost hope. In God’s perfect timing, all of the prophecies and promises were perfectly fulfilled. “‘[T]oday in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord’” (Luke 2:11). “But by His doing you are in Christ Jesus, who became to us…righteousness…” (1 Corinthians 1:30). When Simeon finally witnessed the fulfillment of the ancient prophecies, he praised God and said, “Now Lord, You are releasing Your bond-servant to depart 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 of revelation to the Gentiles, And the glory of Your people Israel’” (Luke 2:29-32).
As an example to us, Simeon waited for the consolation of Israel and trusted in the One who promised a Helper. In the same way, we today can patiently serve the same God even when the situation looks doubtful and trust the Name of Him who said: “‘For I know the plans that I have for you,' declares the LORD, 'plans for welfare and not for calamity to give you a future and a hope’” (Jeremiah 29:11).