“There was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon, and this man was just and devout, waiting for the Consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him” (Luke 2:25).
A bucket list is a checklist of activities a person wants to do before she dies—before she “kicks the bucket.” There are several theories to explain this euphemism for dying. One theory is that a person who is being hanged stands on a bucket while the noose is placed around her neck. Then, at the moment of execution, someone kicks the bucket out from under her. It’s a dreadful explanation.
On the more positive side, there are Web pages dedicated to helping you set up your own bucket list, giving you tips, inspiring you with stories from others, and even providing a place to check off your accomplishments. Here are just a few of the exciting adventures on people’s bucket lists: kayak through caves; visit Petra, Jordan; walk the Golden Gate Bridge; swim with sharks; climb Mount Kilimanjaro, give money to a homeless person; and go on an aerobatic plane ride. What’s on your bucket list?
Simeon had only one entry on his bucket list. Perhaps it is more accurate to say that the Holy Spirit put it there. “It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ” (Luke 2:26). When Mary and Joseph dedicated Jesus in the temple, Simeon was impressed by the Spirit that this was the child he had longed to behold with his own eyes.
Speaking through the gift of inspiration, the elderly prophet held up the baby and proclaimed, “Lord, now You are letting Your servant depart in peace, according to Your word; for my eyes have seen Your salvation” (verses 29, 30).
May your wish and prayer be that of some Greeks who once told Philip, “Sir, we wish to see Jesus” (John 12:21).
Dear Jesus, greater than all the pleasures of the world, it is my hope that someday I will see You face to face.
For Further Study: Luke 2:22–35; John 20:29–31; Matthew 5:8