A New Discovery

An interesting news item appeared in the Jerusalem Post on November 26, 2003:
LUKE 2:25 INSCRIPTION DISCOVERED IN JERUSALEM
Jerusalem scholars uncovered six lines of inscription from the Gospel of Luke, 2:25 engraved on what is know as, "Absalom's Tomb" in the Kidron Valley of Jerusalem, just across from the Temple Mount.

The ancient versus are believed to be the first discovery of a New Testament verse carved onto an ancient shrine.

The inscription declares the 20-meter-high monument in the Kidron Valley to be the tomb of Simon. A New Testament scholar from the University of Florida states that the inscription does back up references to a Byzantine-era belief that three biblical figures- Simon, Zachariah, and James, the brother of Jesus, shared the same tomb. (Jerusalem Post)

Who was this Simon? Luke 2:25 shares that there was a man named Simon, a Jerusalem resident, who was constantly in the Temple, expecting the Messiah to come soon. One day Simon could hardly believe his eyes when he saw Mary and Joseph taking baby Jesus into the Temple. This was the Messiah! He exclaimed, "Now I can die content! For I have seen Him. I have seen the Savior God has given to the world. He is the Light that will shine upon the nations."

Mary and Joseph stood there, astounded at what was being said about their baby. But Simon pointed out that one day a sword would pierce their hearts, for this child would be rejected by many. But He would be the greatest joy to many others.

As you celebrate Christmas, think of Simon who predicted that this baby Jesus could bring the greatest joy to those around. Accept the good news today that a Savior was born to shine Light upon our lives, our homes, our nation and our world.

If you're interested, there is more information about:
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Contributed by George Prins. You may email George at this address:gprins@becon.org or visit his Web site to read more of his writing:www.people.becon.org/~gprins/