Second, this fulfilment is rooted in Scripture. Every line of the Nunc Dimittis echoes one of the promises in Isaiah 40–66.
And the glory of the LORD will be revealed, and all people will see it together. (Is 40.5)
I will keep you and will make you to be a covenant for the people and a light for the Gentiles. (Is 42.6)
Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the LORD rises upon you. (Is 60.1)
(See also Is 46.13, 49.6, 52.10 and 56.1).
Thirdly, this biblical pattern of promise is also personally fulfilled. Just as God has promised something to his people, which he now fulfils in Jesus, so God has promised something to Simeon (that he will not die…) which he now fulfils in Simeon’s encounter with Jesus (…until he has seen with his own eyes). The Spirit of God in Simeon has brought the word of God to Simeon, just as the Spirit has brought the word of God to his people in scripture.
Fourth, all these announcements are marked by joy and wonder, as have all the events around Jesus’ birth, both for those bringing the word of disclosure and for those who hear those words. The theme of joy continues to be a significant part of Luke’s account, both in the gospel and in Acts.
Fifth, and in some contrast, they also include warnings of division and pain.
Reflection for Sunday, the Presentation of the Lord. You see this child: he is destined for the fall and for the rising of many in Israel, destined to be a sign that is rejected. https://t.co/DcfdqFU3Gh pic.twitter.com/zCM5gJnteH
— Deacon Paul O’Connor (@deaconpauloc) February 2, 2020