“For what we proclaim is not ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, and ourselves as your servants for Jesus’ sake. For God who said ‘Let light shine out of darkness’, has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.” II Corinthians 4:5-6

Friday, December 20, 2013

Advent week 4 at HBC

 
This week for Advent I’ll be preaching on the fourth and final song in Luke’s Gospel. Its Simeon’s song known as the Nunc Dimittis.
 
“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 2:29-32
 
One can’t help but think of Isaiah 60:1-3
 
“Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the LORD has risen upon you. For behold, darkness shall cover the earth, and think darkness the peoples; but the LORD will arise upon you, and his glory will be seen upon you. And nations shall come to your light, and kings to the brightness of your rising”
 
The greatest joy that a person will experience is to see and behold the glory of God. This joy is not for only certain types of people like the wealthy, the smart, the put-together ones, and people born into certain families.  Simeon knew this truth. He rejoiced in this truth. He loved this truth. Led by the Spirit he proclaimed this wonderful truth! God has prepared salvation for his people. His own arm brought salvation. He saved and will continue to save men and women from every tribe and language and people and nation! Jesus is the light that shines in the darkness. He is the glory of Israel!

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