Day 11 | Rise and Fall

Scripture to Ponder: Luke 2:22-38 + 1 Peter 2:4-8

In 2009, Daniel Renstrom wrote Rise and Fall, based on Luke 2:34-35:

And Simeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother, “Behold, this child is appointed for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign that is opposed 35 (and a sword will pierce through your own soul also), so that thoughts from many hearts may be revealed.”

The Holy Spirit told Simeon that he would not die before he saw the “consolation of Israel.” The man was old when the Spirit brought him to the temple to meet the tiny Messiah on the day Mary and Joseph brought him there to be consecrated. Simeon held the baby and celebrated the salvation he would bring to Israel and the nations. However, the rise of Jesus means the end of power for religious and political leaders who use their power to oppress the peoples of Earth. The Pharisees felt the sting of their crumbling authority, tried to crucify him, only to see him exit his tomb. Jesus is hope for the humble.

This song does not ignore God’s wrath and punishment for sin, which is an oft-neglected topic during the Christmas season. Yes, the fact that God sent his son to save us is joyous news indeed, but why do we need saving? We need to be saved from our sin and God’s resulting wrath. So, for those who believe in Christ and trust him for salvation, Christmas is a blessed time, full of hope! As Romans 10:11 says, "Everyone who believes in him will not be put to shame."

Rise and Fall | Daniel Renstrom
2009

The dawn of the light
Is breaking tonight
At the birth of this dangerous boy.

And shepherds and kings
Bow down and sing
At the birth of this dangerous boy.

Many will rise and fall
At the birth of this King, the birth of this King.
Many will rise and fall
At the birth of this King, the birth of this King.

Those who oppose
Stumble on this Stone
At the birth of this dangerous King

But many will hear
Believing in fear
Will hope in this dangerous King.

On The Incarnation. Catapult, 2009