Saturday, December 24—Luke 2:25-33: Simeon’s Song
This passage tells the story of a father and mother who take their infant son to Jerusalem in order to fulfill certain religious obligations. As they enter the temple, they encounter an old man, who takes their baby in his arms and voices over him a prayer which amazes them.
Simeon’s praise to God upon seeing the baby Jesus is called the Nunc dimittis, one of three liturgical hymns drawn from the early chapters of Luke’s gospel. The other two are the Magnificat and the Benedictus, or Mary’s song and Zechariah’s prophecy. Despite their differences, these canticles share a number of similarities.
First, all the speakers rejoice in God’s goodness to them as individuals. Mary exalts the Most High for looking upon someone as lowly as she. Zechariah blesses God for giving him a son destined to be a mighty prophet. And the aged Simeon thanks God for satisfying his deepest longings.
Second, all the speakers praise God for his mighty deeds. Mary speaks of a great reversal, where the humble are exalted and the hungry are filled. Zechariah exults in a great victory, when Israel shall be delivered from its enemies. And Simeon sees salvation in the face of an infant who is God’s Chosen One.
Third, all three proclaim the wideness of God’s mercy, which encompasses all people. Both Mary and Zechariah invoke the name of Abraham, the father of all the faithful, and Simeon calls Jesus a light to the Gentiles and the glory of Israel, emphasizing the inclusiveness of God’s gracious purposes.
To these songs of thanksgiving and praise, let us add our own voices. Like Simeon, let us be satisfied in the gift of Jesus, and rest in peace this holy night.
Charles Swadley
