Have you heard of Simeon? No, not Sinek, Cowell or the Chipmunk.
I refer to Simeon, an old man we read in Luke 2:25-35. His fervent desire was to see the promised Messiah before he dies. When he held the baby Jesus in his arms, he burst into praise that started with “Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you may now dismiss [me] in peace.”
In modern language, Simeon basically said “Now I can die happy.” But this lesser-known Christmas story yields some insights on how we can depart 2025 in peace.
First, we must live the right way. Simeon was described as righteous and devout (v 25). It makes sense that we should end the year with a clean conscience. If we have wronged someone during the past 365 days, then we are to make amends and do what is right. If we are captive to some unethical practice, then it’s high time quit them (the Biblical term is to repent from our sins).
Second, we must want the right thing. When Luke wrote that Simeon was waiting for the “consolation of Israel”, it means that he was waiting for the Messiah who would comfort God’s people and redeem them from their sins. The tragedy is to pursue meaning and satisfaction in temporal things such as position, possessions or power. But we are to seek the forgiveness, peace and joy that only Jesus can provide.
Third, we must hold the right Person. Just as Simeon held Jesus in his arms, so we must hold Jesus in our hearts. This comes through the Gospel that He came as a helpless baby on a manger so that, years later, He would pay the penalty for our sins on a cross. We respond by trusting not in our good works, but in Him as our personal Lord and Savior. With this new relationship with God, we can face any challenges that await us in the coming year.
Are you committed to transition to 2026 in peace? Resolve to live a righteous life by desiring God above all and being His child through faith in the Son, Jesus Christ. This is the best way to start a year. In fact, this is the best way to start a new life. Ever. Everything else is secondary.
Note: inspired by Pastor Noah Kennedy’s sermon, December 28, 2025 at the Union Church of Manila.
December 28, 2025
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