Third Day
The aged arms of the feeble old priest embraced the Child, and all turned to enter the building. Simeon bore the weight of the Creator of heaven and earth, yet stood erect, strengthened and consoled. The advent of that Child must have given the old man a manifestation of the greatness and the glory of heaven, and unspeakable joy must have shone forth from his countenance. Then old Simeon remembered the revelation which he had received from the Holy Spirit: that he would not see death until he had held in his arms the anointed of the Lord; and now he bears Him, a feeble child. He finds it hard to return that precious burden to Mary, who stands there with motherly solicitude, yearning to receive back again her beloved Child. But the flood-gates of thanks to almighty God have been opened, and Simeon’s heart and lips break forth in a most sublime and prophetic song. Zachary sang his Benedictus at the circumcision of St. John; Mary sang her Magnificat at Elizabeth’s home, and now Simeon pours forth his soul in a sublime prayer: “Now Thou dost dismiss Thy servant, O Lord, according to Thy word in peace: because my eyes have seen Thy salvation, which Thou hast prepared before the face of all peoples: a light to the revelation of the Gentiles, and the glory of Thy people Israel.”
Prayer.
O Heart of Mary, I offer, etc., etc.