Tune: Ach Gott Und Herr
(\'Strengthen for service, Lord, the hands\')
Luke 2 v.25-35
For Candlemas - The Presentation of Christ in the Temple, aged 40 days
(Feb 2nd)
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Simeon of Christ prophesied
His wishes were not denied
Waiting for the consolation
Of Israel and each nation
The Spirit did to him reveal
He should see Christ, was God\'s will
Before this life he departed
This grace to him imparted
So coming to the Temple, there
He in a blessing did share
Mary, Joseph, and Jesus young
Words spoken, praise to Him sung
For Simeon did Jesus hold
\'Nunc Dimittis\' was then told
Lord, now let me, your servant, Lord
Depart, your word does accord
For my eyes have your salvation
Seen, Christ for every nation
You, O God, have prepare Him sure
Before all peoples face, pure
A light to lighten the Gentiles
No longer wait, no more whiles
And the glory of your people
Lord, he be to Israel all
Jesus\' parents did wonder there
And more Simeon did share
Said to Mary, This child He be
Set to bring man\'s destiny
Set for the fall and rise again
Of many in Israel, then
He be a sign spoken against
By those who know no repents
This so the thoughts of many hearts
May be revealed, e\'en deep parts
And a sword shall too Mary\'s soul
Pierce, suffering take its toll