Simeon was a scholar. According to tradition, he was commissioned to translate the Old Testament (Septuagint) into Greek. However, it was not just a job to him. He was a just and devout man and the Holy Spirit rested on him. As he was translating Isaiah, he hesitated when he came to the phrase “behold a virgin will conceive.” How could he translate something so outrageous as that? Because of this, he was told by an angel that he would not die before he had seen Christ born to a virgin.

One normal day, he was working as usual when he felt Holy Spirit urging him to go to the Temple. Simeon was acquainted with Holy Spirit and knew to obey. As he entered the temple, he looked around intently. Was this the day he would see the Christ? But he did not see any pomp and circumstance that would be around at a historic moment such as the presentation of a child king’s dedication. It was the regular crowd milling about doing their business. Suddenly his eyes lighted on a man and woman dressed in country clothes shyly crossing the women’s court. The woman was carrying a small baby and the man was carrying two turtledoves, the offering of purification for the poor. No one else noticed them since pilgrims were always coming to the temple. But Simeon noticed them.

He followed them and watched as them gave their offering to the priest. The priest unceremoniously took the birds, their wings flapping wildly, and quickly sacrificed them to purify the mother after her childbirth. This was something the priest did multiple times every day – this was nothing new or different to him. He barely gave the couple and baby a glance as he ushered them away so the next couple could come up with their sacrifice.

Simeon hurried over to the couple and took the baby boy from the mother. Holy Spirit came upon him strongly as he lifted the Christ Child Jesus up and blessed God and prophesied, “Lord, now You are letting Your servant depart in peace, According to Your word; for my eyes have seen Your salvation which You have prepared before the face of all peoples, A light to bring revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of Your people Israel.” (Luke 2:29-32). 

As Simeon reverently handed the baby back to his mother, compassion overwhelmed him. Simeon said to Mary, “Behold, this Child is destined for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign which will be spoken against. Yes, a sword will pierce through your own soul also, that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.” (Luke 2:34-35) 

As Simeon made his way back to his home, he felt a mixture of emotions. He rejoiced that he had finally seen the Consolation of Israel as the angel had promised. He felt sadness and burdened by what all this Child was to go through. But most of all he felt awe that Holy Spirit gave him the privilege of announcing the blessing upon the Child born of a virgin. 

Some had been told by an angel. Some had followed the ancient prophecies. Simeon had been led by Holy Spirit Himself to the Christ Child.