Rising
Read Luke 2.33-35
“..this Child is destined to cause the falling and rising of many in Israel ..” (Lk.2.34)
The coming of Jesus is disturbing (Matt.2.3), for He demands a response, and how you respond has life or death repercussions. Simeon’s words, however, may also point to the fact that there must be a humble dying to self (falling) before you’re raised to life.
It is to the humble (and the humbled) that God gives grace (1 Pet.5.5): how was such a broken and contrite heart (Ps.51.17) formed in you?
Simeon’s words mirror Mary’s song: as you think back over the past year what are the ‘great things’ the Mighty One has done for you?
Prayer: Great is Your faithfulness, O God my Father! Thank You for Your mercies new every morning, whereby though I have fallen yet by Your grace I rise again.