When Jesus was born, Israel had been without any new, specific revelation from God for nearly 400 years. Many were probably tempted to think that God had forgotten them or would never speak to them again.

But some continued to have faith in God. One was a man named Simeon, whom we read about in Luke 2:25-38. Simeon was “just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was upon him.”

God rewarded Simeon’s faithfulness by promising him that he would get to see the Messiah before he died. When Mary and Joseph brought Jesus to the temple to fulfill the Old Testament law concerning the consecration of the firstborn son, the Holy Ghost led Simeon to be there that day, too. Upon seeing Jesus, Simeon immediately knew that God had kept His promise. He scooped Jesus up into his arms and immediately began to praise God for keeping His promises.

We may have to wait a long time, or it may seem unlikely or impossible that God’s promises will be fulfilled, but we must have faith in God no matter how discouraging the circumstances. When we see God’s promises kept, we should immediately thank Him and glorify His name. Celebrating the birth of Christ reminds us that God always keeps His promises, and for that, He deserves our praise.