Song for Simeon and Anna

Song for Simeon and Anna

(to tune Ebenezer by Thomas John Williams, 
Together in Song 232 or 373)

Christmas 1; Luke 2:22-40

1. Spirit, come to some like Simeon,

Anna, old but strong in prayer.

We too need this Christ child’s presence!

Let us hold good news to share!

See, a baby shows God’s likeness,

dreams of prophets brought to life:

both a light to every nation,

and a victim of our strife.



2. He was destined for the falling

and the rising of the powers;

sign opposed so thoughts of many

were revealed in those dark hours.

Mary heard that love brings grieving:

sword would pierce her own soul too.

We face wounds in loving Jesus,

finding we are old and few.



3. So find comfort in this story:

two old people, wise, devout,

heard the call to meet this baby,

then in joy they were sent out.

One found peace to face his passing,

one found strength to praise and speak:

she was free now, age and gender

had no power to make her weak.



4. So for Anna and for Simeon

we give thanks now. They inspire

hope that we find gifts in ageing:

wisdom, courage, Spirit fire,

words of insight, hope and meaning,

peace to face our parting breath.

Love will hold us through the darkness;

God with us in life and death.

	Barbara Messner26/12/2023