Seperation

​12/31/20
Today’s devotion for today is based on Luke 2:30-32, “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.”
We human beings have a terrible habit of focusing on what makes us different from others. Instead of rejoicing in all the things that unite us as fellow human beings, we separate ourselves into rival groups based on various characteristics that we consider essential. We separate ourselves based on nationality. We separate ourselves based on the color of our skin. We separate ourselves based on whether we support this political candidate or that one. With all this separation, is it any wonder that we are experiencing so much turmoil in our world right now?
Thankfully, when God looks at us, he does not focus on what separates us from one another. Simeon recognized this as he held Jesus in his arms. As he praised God for sending Jesus, he realized that Jesus came both for the Gentiles (non-Jewish people) and for the people of Israel (Jewish people). That covers every human being. That covers you. Regardless of who you are, where you are from, or whatever unique characteristics you may have, Jesus came to be your Savior. And for that, we join Simeon in praising God.
Lord Jesus, thank you for coming to this earth to offer salvation to all people.  Help me always to remember that when I separate myself from those not like me.  In your holy name,  I pray. Amen.