Nunc Dimittis

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The Nunc dimittis (also Song of Simeon or Canticle of Simeon) is a hymn from Luke 2:29–32 named after its opening words in Latin.

You cannot dance to the Nunc dimittis (although it might be fun to try).

Simeon’s Song begins with a sentiment that conjures up the joyful, upbeat, folk music of a Jewish wedding. It changes mood and becomes quiet, contemplative, and then it ends. You can’t dance to it, but you can certainly worship with it.

The powerful message from this man (after whom Angela and I named our third son) was delivered to Mary and Joseph after the first Christmas but has a divine purpose for us today. Simeon’s Song tells us in Luke 2:23-35 that our Lord Jesus Christ is the fulfillment of God’s promise for our salvation.

As you listen to the following rendition (the video is a little funny, but the voices are breathtakingly beautiful), you might read the text of Luke 2 and consider the wonder of Jesus’ incarnation.  

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