The Song of Simeon

“Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace,
according to thy word:
For mine eyes have seen thy salvation,
Which thou hast prepared before the face of all people;
A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel.”

So what’s that all about? 

Well, the story of it is that when Mary and Joseph took Jesus to the Temple as a baby, an old man called Simeon met them.  Simeon had been promised that he would see the Messiah and so he recognised Jesus.  Simeon was so delighted that he couldn’t keep from singing and we have his song remembered in Luke’s Gospel (Luke 2:29-32). 

For our art theme this time, take the words of the Song of Simeon, read them through and see which phrase jumps out at you.  You can use whichever version of the words you like, I like the King James version (above) but you may have another copy of the Bible which uses slightly different words, or trying looking online – search Luke 2:29-32.  I’ve put another version at the end of this message.

Remember, art is unlimited – it could be a picture, but it could be a poem, or sculpture, collage of model.  I have been working on a piece of jewellery.   

So whatever art it is, photograph your work and send it to me
(LLM Lesley:  llm.lesley@badshotleaandhale.org ).  Also, tell me why you chose these particular words and I will put an online exhibition together.  Please sign your work so I know it is your own and confirm that you are happy for us to exhibit it online and in St Mark’s

Closing date for receipt of photos: Sunday 31 January – which is in time for Candlemas, the date when the church remembers the story of Simeon.

(We will have a display which you can see at St Mark’s too, so bring your work there if you can.)

Just in case the King James’ version of the song doesn’t appeal to you, here is another:

“Now, Lord, you have kept your promise,
    and you may let your servant go in peace.
With my own eyes I have seen your salvation,
    which you have prepared in the presence of all peoples:
A light to reveal your will to the Gentiles
    and bring glory to your people Israel.”


What are you waiting for?  I want to see that art!