Luke 2.29-32, sometimes called the nunc dimittis from its first two words in Latin, is a beautiful piece of poetry with which Simeon greets the baby Jesus.

Now, Lord, you let your servant go in peace:
your word has been fulfilled.

My own eyes have seen the salvation
which you have prepared in the sight of every people;

A light to reveal you to the nations
and the glory of your people Israel.

– Luke 2.29-32 (in Common Worship)

It has often been set to music, and here is my attempt to fit it to the lovely tune ‘Olwen.’ For better hymns do examine the work of Liam Beadle.

Thus Simeon praised God:
“O Lord, as you promised,
dismiss your servant in peace,
for now that I see with
my eyes your salvation,
contented, I’ll wait for my end.”

“This child in my arms, who
is born as our Saviour,
was prophesied time and again.
No people nor tongue has
been left without witness
that Jesus would come as God’s Son.”

“He’s a light to the Gentiles,
that they might believe,
and trust in the only true God,
and glory to Israel,
the people God chose as
the forebears of Jesus the Christ.”