Simeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother, Behold, this child is destined for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign which will be spoken against (yes, a sword will pierce through your own heart also), that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.
Luke 2:34.35.
The birth of the Redeemer was announced to Mary by the angel Gabriel and confirmed by Elizabeth, who “was filled with the Holy Spirit” (ch.2:v.41). Moreover, the angel of the Lord brought the shepherds the message concerning it. In these communications other noble titles, apart from His Name Jesus (i.e. the Lord is Saviour) are given: the Son of the Highest, the Son of God, heir of the throne of His father David, Saviour and finally the Christ. Everlasting dominion is promised Him.
Now, six weeks after His birth, a further prophecy is made concerning Him. God led the aged Simon into the temple to make known that He would bring about His salvation through this Child, not solely for the glory of His people Israel, but also to place all the nations of the world in God’s light (vv.30-32).
Mary is also informed of something profoundly moving. The Son was not appointed only to re-establish much in Israel. Many would be offended by Him and fall as a result. He would not find acceptance from the outset but rather contradiction. Jesus’ pathway would be one of suffering. And she herself, His mother, would have her part in those sufferings. They would pierce through her own soul “like a sword” (vv. 34.35). She would be one of those who, in following Him on His pathway, would also have to suffer.
Image: By Arent de Gelder – Unknown source, Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=467320