“For mine eyes have seen thy salvation.” Luke 2:30

The Jewish nation was waiting for “Messiah” the promised One to come. They were expecting a miracle. But when He came, it wasn’t as they imagined. They wanted a King, a Deliverer, not a baby born in a stable announced by angels and worshiped by shepherds.

But there was at least one person who had a different perspective. This man’s waiting was done patiently and in full faith. His name was Simeon and we find his story recorded in 10 verses stuck right in the middle of Luke chapter two. Now an old man, Simeon was just and devout. He had waited a long time to see the miracle, the Consolation of Israel. That day as he took the infant Jesus up in his arms he declared, “…mine eyes have seen Thy salvation.” He believed and his faith became sight.

Some today, however, have the wait and see attitude. They want to see, feel, or experience a miracle before they will step out on faith and trust God: in essence demanding to “see” in order to receive faith. By doing so it is not faith at all then, but a fulfilling of some felt need. It was the same in Jesus’ day. In John chapter six we read of those who followed Jesus to see the miracles that he did. But Jesus, who knew the thoughts and intents of their hearts said, “…Ye seek me, not because ye saw the miracles, but because ye did eat of the loaves, and were filled.”

What miracle do you need today? I know for me I keep thinking some day God is going to do something to make life joyful and fulfilling again. If I'm not careful, my attitude could degenerate to the point of just wanting to be filled. The Christmas season seems the perfect time to renew my resolve to be steadfast in trusting the Lord, not demanding to see a miracle, but rather actively waiting in faith for my miracle. It may not be what I imagine, but I will surely rejoice.

“O LORD, be gracious unto us; we have waited for thee: be thou their arm every morning, our salvation also in the time of trouble.” Isaiah 33:2