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Christmas · The First Sunday after Christmas

Luke 2:(22-32) 33-40

The Birth of Jesus

Simeon's Song of Praise, Rembrandt van Rijn
Simeon's Song of Praise, Rembrandt van Rijn, 1631Mauritshuis, The Hague
The old man holding the child up in both hands in the dark of the temple, his face turned away from it and upward.Simeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother, This child is destined for the falling and the rising of many in Israel.Rembrandt van RijnRembrandt at twenty-five, lighting the whole temple from the child.Mauritshuis, The HagueThe Mauritshuis, The Hague.Mauritshuis, The Hague

Overview & Insights

“For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.” (Luke 2:11)

With this scene, the fulfillment of the angel Gabriel’s announcements (1:11–20, 26–37) is complete. Both John and Jesus have been unexpectedly conceived, celebrated in prophetic songs, and born in remarkable circumstances. Each is already revealed as having a central role in God’s plan of salvation, but the angel’s words now emphasize that the good news is centered on the Messiah rather than on his forerunner.

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What does Luke emphasize in the birth of Jesus?

The Savior of the world is laid in a manger and announced first to shepherds; the heavenly host sings glory to God in the highest and peace on earth.

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