The Nunc Dimitis is a Latin phrase that means “Now let your servant depart.” The phrase comes from the first two words of Simeon’s prayer.
Today, we celebrate the Presentation of the Lord Jesus Christ in the temple. During this beautiful event, as recorded in the Gospel of Luke (Luke 2:22-40), several outstanding events came together in honor and exaltation of the Christ-child being presented in the temple. In this brief reflection, I will focus on one event, a prayer and declaration made by Simeon. The Scripture tells us that the Holy Spirit promised Simeon he would not see death until he saw the Savior of the world. So, when the parents of Jesus brought Him to the temple for Presentation, Simeon made the Nunc Dimitis prayer: “Now, Master, you may let your servant go in peace, according to your word, for my eyes have seen your salvation, which you prepared in the sight of all the peoples: a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and glory for your people Israel” (Luke 2:29). The Lord’s promise to Simeon and Simeon’s prayer are very significant.
The promise of the Holy Spirit to Simeon and Simeon’s Prayer
Death entered the world due to Adam’s sin. Jesus’ mission is to redeem humanity and the universe from sin and its consequences, including death. Simeon was described as a righteous man. He is not saved by his righteousness but by the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, who saves. The revelation and promise given to Simeon were also meant for everyone in right standing with God. Standing right with God begins with a decision to receive the grace of faith freely offered by God. The acceptance of this gift of righteousness places one on the road to salvation.
It is the will of God that His children should have the experience of salvation during their lifetime and then be ushered into heaven, where the fullness of the gift of salvation is bestowed. Hence, “He [Simeon] will not see death until he sees the Messiah” is a promise, a revelation, the path of salvation, and God’s blueprint for upending the power of death. This promise applies to all believers as well: You will not see death until you have seen the Messiah. Contrary to the plan of the enemy, you will live to see the good things God has in store for you. Pray with the Psalmist: “I believe I shall see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living” (Psalm 27:13). Notice the Psalmist says, “in the land of the living”, not the dead.
Goodness
The life that God has given us comes with much goodness within it. God wants us to experience all of it. If it were not so, Jesus would not have come. He may have waited for us to meet Him on our way to heaven. The fact that Christ came from heaven to earth reveals too many realities yet to be fully explored, grasped, and understood. But at least, get the opportunity to see, behold, touch, and experience the Salvation that God has prepared for you. Simeon did not die until he saw this salvation.
Through this solemn feast of the Presentation, may this grace of seeing, knowing, and experiencing the salvation of God be with all of us, Amen!
[Readings: Malachi 3:1-4; Hebrews 2:14-18; Luke 2:22-40 or 2:22-32]
Thank you for explaining the Psalm, specifically that Jesus came so that we may experience God’s goodness here on Earth, while we are living. Much of my spiritual teaching and promises focus on teceiving awards, a good life after death. This can be discouraging at times – to have to die for good things. Being human, looking forward for a good life given now, is uplifting and motivating – it makes me want to strive to develop my spiritual life more consistently and deeper.