The Battle Standard, Pt. 2

As we prepare our hearts to celebrate the day of Christmas, consider this:

In Jerusalem was a man by the name of Simeon. He was an upright man, devoted to the service of God, living in expectation of the “salvation of Israel." His heart was open to the Holy Spirit, and it had been revealed to him that he would not die before he saw the Lord’s Christ. He had been led by the Spirit to go into the Temple, and when Jesus’ parents brought the child in to have done to him what the Law required, he took him up in his arms, blessed God, and said — “At last, Lord, you can dismiss your servant in peace, as you promised! For with my own eyes I have seen your salvation which you have made ready for every people — a light to show truth to the Gentiles and bring glory to your people Israel.”

The child’s father and mother were still amazed at what was said about him, when Simeon gave them his blessing. He said to Mary, the child’s mother, “This child is destined to make many fall and many rise in Israel and to set up a standard ​- σημεῖον, a battle standard - which many will attack..." Luke 2

As this little baby is born, the Army of Heaven breaks through. May we today and tomorrow - and everyday - celebrate the glorious and ongoing victory that began with the birth of the Christ-child!

Painting by G.C. Myers