WEEK TWO - PEACE

Written by Emily Hall

Embraced Peace

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• Read Luke 2:25-32 •

Have you ever known anyone like Simeon? Luke describes him as righteous and devout, full of the Holy Spirit, and waiting for God to fulfill His promise of salvation for His people. The Spirit had revealed to Simeon that he would not die before seeing the Messiah. Then one day, moved by the Spirit, Simeon went into the temple courts. At just the right moment, he was in just the right place- not only to have his deepest longing fulfilled but also to make a gospel proclamation that would echo across the centuries.

In obedience to God’s law, Jesus’ parents brought Him to the temple at eight days old to present Him before the Lord. The Spirit had positioned Simeon to take the Lord into his arms and praise God:

“Sovereign Lord, as You have promised, You may now dismiss Your servant in peace. For my eyes have seen Your salvation, which You have prepared in the sight of all nations: a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of Your people Israel.” (Luke 2:29–32)

Simeon’s life was shaped by his longing to see the Messiah. God acknowledged his deepest desire and made a promise. Simeon’s longing became expectancy- he expected God to do what He promised He would do. As a result, his life was Spirit-led; he listened, obeyed, and positioned himself to witness God’s salvation.

And then one day- obedient expectancy became embraced experience! Spirit-led Simeon obeyed, went into the temple, and embraced the Messiah-the Prince of Peace-in his arms. The One who had dwelt beyond the veil, whom only the high priest could approach once a year, was now near enough to hold.

Overflowing with gratitude, Simeon blessed God and declared the Messiah’s arrival for all people-Jews and Gentiles alike. And in that moment, Simeon himself was embraced by peace-Shalom- wholeness, completeness, the deep rest of a heart fulfilled.

Simeon’s example calls us to a life shaped by expectancy, led by the Spirit, and proclaiming the peace of God in all places for all people.

Believers all over the world are living Spirit-led lives shaped by expectancy-just like Simeon. Our persecuted brothers and sisters are living in hard places, holding on to and proclaiming the Prince of Peace. May their courage stir us to live with the same expectancy and to proclaim God’s shalom wherever we are.

PRAYER:

Lord, this Advent, stir in me such expectancy that my daily life is Spirit led and shaped by the hope of Your return. May I live in Your Shalom and proclaim Your peace to all people. And, Lord, help me to be faithful to remember and pray for my persecuted brothers and sisters all over the world. Amen.

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Prayer For The Persecuted Church

Praying for the persecuted church is vital because it unites us with our brothers and sisters who suffer for their faith and reminds us that we are one body in Christ. When one part suffers, we are called to stand with them, interceding for their strength, courage, and witness in the face of hardship. Our prayers not only encourage and sustain them spiritually but also align our hearts with God’s heart for the nations and deepen our gratitude for the freedom we enjoy.

As Hebrews 13:3 urges, “Remember those in prison as if you were together with them in prison, and those who are mistreated as if you yourselves were suffering.”

LEARN MORE AND PRAY WITH:

• Open Doors USA – global prayer updates and the annual World Watch List.

• Voice of the Martyrs (VOM) – stories, prayer guides, and resources for churches.

• Download the VOM app on iPhone or Android for daily prayer prompts