Into the Liturgy, part 9

The Nunc Dimittis
As Joseph and Mary presented Jesus at the temple, Simeon beheld the fulfillment of God’s promise to send his Messiah. Simeon, having remained in the temple throughout his advanced years, gazed upon the infant Savior, praising God. Like Simeon, the Church looks upon her Savior as she receives Christ’s body and blood through the Sacrament of the Altar. We give thanks to God, for through the life, death, and resurrection of Christ we receive the full measure of God’s forgiveness and grace. Therefore, in the words of Simeon, we can depart in peace, God’s Word has been fulfilled.
The Benediction
As God instructed the priest Aaron (Numbers 6), God calls his ordained servant to pronounce the LORD’s blessing upon his people. God imparts his name upon the congregation, sending them back into the world with his peace and protection. Worshipers return to daily life filled with the promise of God’s countenance (his presence and favor).
The Exhortation
With the Divine Service now concluded, the children of God are called to be living examples of Christ’s love engaged in his Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20). As we return to daily living, Christians are called to “Go in peace to serve the Lord.” We serve God by sharing the good news of the Gospel with the world while loving and serving our neighbor.