The Fall and Rising

"And Joseph and His mother marvelled at those things which were spoken of Him." Luke 2:33

From the angel's announcement of their child's miraculous conception and birth to His presentation to the Lord in the temple, Mary and Joseph heard much to "take in" about their miracle child. Isaiah had prophesied about the coming Messiah, calling Him, Wonderful, Counsellor, The Mighty God, Everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. And He is. But were they prepared for Simeon's prophecy about their newborn son?

Upon entering the temple with the Holy Spirit on him, the just and devout Simeon thanked God for letting him see the Lord's Christ, the hope of salvation for all people before he died. With Jesus in his arms, he blessed the couple. Then looking at Mary said that God appointed their son for the downfall and standing again of many. Did she understand the implication of a sword piercing her heart?

Jesus was the misery and ruin of some people but the joy and salvation of others. Mary witnessed her Son's rejection (even by His siblings), unfair treatment, and false accusations by many; she saw Him die on the cross for the world's sins. Mary and many others believed Jesus was their deliverer and the world's Savior. Yes, His death was heartbreaking, but He rose from the grave on the third day just as He said.

Jesus is still the Light of the world, and people must decide what they believe about Him; who said He and the Father are One. He is a place of safety for some and a snare to others—people will either gladly accept Him or blatantly reject Him to their destruction. He was and still is the Hope and Deliverer for those buried in sin, the Healer and Lifter of sick and sorrowful people. Are you among the miserable and ruined or the joyful and saved?