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At that time there was a man named Simeon living in Jerusalem. He was a good, God-fearing man and was waiting for Israel to be saved. The Holy Spirit was with him
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and had assured him that he would not die before he had seen the Lord's promised Messiah.
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Led by the Spirit, Simeon went into the Temple. When the parents brought the child Jesus into the Temple to do for him what the Law required,
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Simeon took the child in his arms and gave thanks to God:
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"Now, Lord, you have kept your promise, and you may let your servant go in peace.
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With my own eyes I have seen your salvation,
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which you have prepared in the presence of all peoples:
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A light to reveal your will to the Gentiles
1 and bring glory to your people Israel."
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The child's father and mother were amazed at the things Simeon said about him.
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Simeon blessed them and said to Mary, his mother, "This child is chosen by God for the destruction and the salvation of many in Israel. He will be a sign from God which many people will speak against
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and so reveal their secret thoughts. And sorrow, like a sharp sword, will break your own heart."