I love how the bible weaves together the central message of Jesus. A book written over 1500 years by different authors with various styles still all point to the Messiah, to Jesus. It is absolutely amazing!
Recently, I read this verse in the book of Joshua:
The inheritance of the Simeonites was taken from the share of Judah, because Judah’s portion was more than they needed. So the Simeonites received their inheritance within the territory of Judah. (Joshua 19:9)
When I saw this verse, my mind went immediately to the second chapter of Luke. These verses are separated over a thousand years, yet come together in a surprising way. In the book of Luke, a man named Simeon is mentioned.
Now there was a man in Jerusalem called Simeon, who was righteous and devout. He was waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was on him. It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not die before he had seen the Lord’s Messiah. Moved by the Spirit, he went into the temple courts. When the parents brought in the child Jesus to do for him what the custom of the Law required, Simeon took him in his arms and praised God… (Luke 2:25-28a)
Jesus was from the tribe of Judah (as recorded in Matthew chapter 1 as well as Luke chapter 3). Therefore, this man named Simeon also received his inheritance from the tribe of Judah this day in the temple! The tribe of Judah had more than enough land to share. In the same way, Jesus is never depleted as He gives to us. The tribe of Simeon received physical land on earth. The man Simeon received a spiritual inheritance of heaven. The land from Judah served the Simeonites for generations. The gift of life from Jesus lasts for eternity!
We must be like Simeon and follow the Spirit’s leading to come to the Messiah. We will receive a heavenly inheritance that will never fade away! This can only lead us to marvel at the gift of salvation for us, just as Simeon did as he held Jesus in his arms.
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 2:30-32)
Praise be to Jesus, the Messiah from the tribe of Judah who gives generously the gift of salvation to all nations! The tribe of Simeon dwelled with the tribe of Judah. We can dwell with Jesus for all of eternity. Glory be to His Name!