2 lessons from an old Jewish prophet

Apr 20, 2026

Revelation & Glory

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For my eyes have seen your salvation that you have prepared in the presence of all peoples: a light, for revelation to the Gentiles, and for glory to your people Israel.”

Luke 2:30-32 (NET)

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A lot of cool things happening in these verses:

First, this is written as a song from an old prophet who had been told by the Holy Spirit that he would not die before seeing the Christ.

It looks like he waited many, many years to see this fulfilled.

But what stands out to me is he talks about this while holding baby Jesus.

That’s some special faith to trust God that long and rejoice in meeting a baby boy.

It encourages me and challenges me to trust God more.

This man lived through years and years of silent faithfulness, heard one (probably only the one) massive promise from God, and stayed faithful.

God has given us so many promises in His Word and yet I still wander off on my own, too often choosing my own selfish sins to God’s goodness.

Oh may I be more faithful!

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Something else that should obviously stand out:

Salvation was declared for all peoples, Gentiles and Jews alike.

I realize that part of Luke’s purpose in the Gospel was to share Jesus’ mission with the Gentiles so it makes sense to put this in here.

But, also, this Jewish prophet declared it from early days.

Astonishing.

And another testament to his faithfulness in God, who probably had to do a lot of transforming work in his heart to not be like the other religious leaders in his day.

Thankfully, God is in the very business of transforming lives.

He can work on our hearts and minds right now.

— Ricky Ketchum

Scripture quotations marked (ESV) are from the ESV®Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright© 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

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