WEDNESDAY.
Simeon's Prophecy. — I.
I. " And behold there was a man in Jerusalem named Simeon, and this man was just and devout." (Luke ii. 25.) Here the sanctity of those who gave testimony of Christ is described, for there is nothing of greater credit and authority than innocence of life. Simeon was just and devout; afraid of offending God in the least, "for he that feareth God neglecteth nothing." (Eccles. vii. 19.) " He was waiting for the consolation of Israel" (Luke ii. 25), by fervent desires and holy aspirations. "And the Holy Ghost was in him," inspiring him to fix his thoughts on God and heavenly things alone, and not on the vain and empty objects which the world presents. Such ought to be the conduct of all good Christians, especially those who, like Simeon, have consecrated themselves to God — " waiting," not for earthly enjoyments, but, as the Apostle says, "for the blessed hope and coming of the glory of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ." (Tit. ii. 13.)
II. " And he came by the Spirit into the temple." Reflect on the different motives which induce men to frequent the house of God. Some are actuated by human respect, or led by custom or curiosity. Observe how soon Simeon discovered the Expected of All Nations, whom the ancient patriarchs and prophets had so anxiously desired to see. Observe the veneration and devotion with which the holy man approaches the world's Redeemer. Oh what a flame of divine love must have been enkindled in his heart when he had the Son of God so near! Imitate his veneration and devotion as often as you receive the
