“He is a light to reveal God to the nations, and He is the glory of your people Israel!” (Luke 2:32).
Those words spoken by Simeon when he first met the Messiah remain true. Yesterday, today, tomorrow, always.
Since Oct 7, 2023, the world’s attention has been riveted on Israel. Not because that was the day the Jewish nation was celebrating Simchat Torah, “the joy of Torah” (the end of the annual cycle of the reading of the books of Moses). But because that was the day of an unprecedented and brutal attack on Israel by Hamas terrorists. This is an attack on every good thing God’s law represents.
When I heard this tragic news, the prophecy of Simeon to Mary and Joseph in Luke 2:34 came to my mind.
This child is destined to cause many in Israel to fall, but he will be a joy to many others. He has been sent as a sign from God, but many will oppose him.
Jesus was and is the embodiment and fulfillment of the Torah (Genesis through Deuteronomy). In Matthew 5, we read Jesus’ words:
Don’t misunderstand why I have come. I did not come to abolish the law of Moses or the writings of the prophets. No, I came to accomplish their purpose. I tell you the truth, until heaven and earth disappear, not even the smallest detail of God’s law will disappear until its purpose is achieved.
The “Law” (Torah) points to and leads people to Christ (Galatians 3:24-27). God has clearly revealed Himself in His written Word and even more clearly in Jesus Christ, who embodied and exemplified that Word as a light to the nations. Thankfully, there are millions around the world who are embracing Jesus, the Light of the World. They are rejoicing in His salvation this season. Thank you for helping Reach A Village spread the Good News about Jesus to the nations in the midst of a dark and chaotic world.
Let us continue to pray for those who oppose the Law of God and the people of God. Pray that even those who oppose God and His Law will come to know the Prince of Peace. For we, like the prophet Simeon of old, know that only Jesus is the Way, the Truth and the Life. He is the only hope of Peace on Earth and good will toward all people.
In Christ,
Bob Craft
Reach A Village Founder and President
