The joy of our Lord’s nativity began on December 25 and continues for 12 days. On this sixth day of Christmas we celebrate with Simeon, as he takes the Infant into his hands and rejoices that he did not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ. So it is with all who behold Jesus in Word and Sacrament. As we close out the calendar year, we can sing with faithful Simeon:
“Lord, now You are letting Your servant depart in peace,
according to Your word;
for my eyes have seen Your salvation
that You have prepared in the presence of all peoples,
a light for revelation to the Gentiles,
and for glory to Your people Israel.”
Luke 2:29-32