Joel M Bradshaw

33And his father and his mother marveled at what was said about him [Jesus]. 34And Simeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother, “Behold, this child is appointed for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign that is opposed 35(and a sword will pierce through your own soul also), so that thoughts from many hearts may be revealed.”–Luke 2

1. Mary and Joseph were taking baby Jesus to the Temple to obey the laws about dedicating firstborn sons to God (Exodus 13:2), and about Mary’s ritual purification after giving birth (Leviticus 12:8).
2. This meant that Joseph and Mary were godly people. They cared about the things God cared about.
3. While they were there, a righteous man named Simeon spoke words about baby Jesus.
4. Many would rise and fall in Israel regarding Jesus. As the Gospels would unfold in Israel, either people opposed Jesus or followed Him.
5. He will be seen as a sign that is opposed. Even to this day, the cross is offensive to many in our world. The topic of Jesus continues to be divisive thousands of years later.
6. In doing so the thoughts would be revealed. Private faith decisions or obstinate rejections won’t remain within the inner person, but would one day be made known by allegiance to Jesus.
7. Merry Christmas, my friends.–JMB