What happensPermalink
Jesus is born. Angels announce the birth to shepherds and sing a third hymn: the Gloria in Excelsis Deo. Jesus is circumcised, and Simeon sings a fourth hymn: the Nunc Dimittis. At twelve years old, Jesus is left behind and later found in the temple.
Why it mattersPermalink
Jesus’s birth in Bethlehem was foretold, but required a movement of empires to fulfill. Simeon’s song emphasizes that Jesus came for Gentiles, too, a fact few others understand until decades later.
Key versePermalink
“For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.”