Song of Simeon
Do you know the story of Simeon from Luke's Gospel (Luke 2:22-35)? Simeon spent his life in prayer, waiting and anticipating the coming of the Messiah. He was present the day Mary and Joseph presented Jesus in the temple for blessing and dedication, according to the Law of Moses. According to that law, forty days after the birth of a male child, his mother had to present the baby in the temple and offer as a sacrifice either a lamb or a pair of doves or pigeons for purification.
When Simeon saw the child, he took Jesus in his arms and prayed aloud,
Master, now you are dismissing your servant in peace,
according to your word;
for my eyes have seen your salvation,
which you have prepared in the presence of all peoples,
a light for revelation to the Gentiles
and for glory to your people Israel (Luke 2:29-32).
Traditionally for Catholics, the Canticle of Simeon is part of one's night prayers (Compline), concluding one's day in peace. But can you imagine yourself saying this prayer at other times? Like Simeon, each one of us is challenged to be a temple of God to whom Mary brings Jesus. Can you take Jesus in your arms and proclaim to God the Father, "My eyes have seen your glory!" This prayer of an old man seeking to leave this life and die in peace carries more meaning than you might first imagine. For us it means that having encountered Jesus, we are released from earthly and sinful things that hold us back. We can see more clearly, and choose more wisely.
Consider this: perhaps the time to say the prayer of Simeon is when you are shrouded in darkness and confusion, and you want nothing more than to encounter the light of Christ and experience his clarity.
Have you ever been confronted with an important decision but you can't see your way to the right choice? Next time put yourself in the position of Simeon, and imagine holding, touching, encountering Christ. Perhaps a light of revelation will come to you.
Have you ever been troubled by something you must do or say that will surely cause strife and discomfort to another? Next time, embrace the prayer of Simeon and perhaps the light of Christ will inspire your words and actions for the best possible outcome.
Have you ever been lost in a relationship with someone you love, not knowing where you stand with him or her, and frightened that it may come to an end? Next time, put yourself in the shoes of Simeon, waiting, reaching out to embrace the Christ child, and perhaps that posture of openness will break through the darkness of your troubled relationship.
To help you say the prayer of Simeon and embrace its wisdom and peace, I invite you to listen to Janet Sullivan Whitaker's rendition of the Song of Simeon.
Now O God, let your servant go.
Let me go in peace according to your word.
For my eyes behold your saving work:
a light for all the world, alleluia.
If you follow the rhythms and seasons of the church year, you may wonder why you are reading about Simeon and the Christ child now. Wouldn't it be more appropriate during the Christmas season? Perhaps, but not only is his prayer good for all seasons, we must remember that Simeon spent his entire life waiting, anticipating the coming of the Messiah. So why not begin your anticipation now, embracing his spiritual posture now, so that when you hear his story during the Christmas season you will be able to enter into it fully.
Relate Link: The Presentation of the Lord
Spirit Compass reflections are developed in partnership
with the Center for Ministry Development.