In Peace and Joy I Now Depart
In peace and joy I now depart
This hymn expresses the Lutheran theology of justification by faith as Simeon departs in peace, having seen God's salvation accomplished in Christ. It demonstrates the unity of Law and Gospel, Old Testament promise and New Testament fulfillment, with Christ as the light of the nations and glory of Israel.
History & Background
Martin Luther paraphrased the Song of Simeon (Nunc Dimittis) as a German hymn for the Feast of Presentation around 1524. The original German text 'Mit Fried und Freud ich fahr dahin' became one of Luther's most significant compositions for liturgical use.
Hymnal Appearances
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 440
- Lutheran Book of Worship — 349
- Lutheran Service Book — 938
- Lutheran Worship — 185
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 137
Translation
Bulletin Note
Written by Simeon (c. 1524), this hymn based on Luke 2:29-32 captures the ancient canticle's promise of salvation revealed to Jews and Gentiles alike—comfort for pilgrims and those approaching death.
Preaching Connection
This hymn embodies the Law-Gospel movement perfectly: from human mortality and need to the Gospel's gift of Christ, the light whose salvation satisfies every longing of the human heart.
Catechism & Confessional Connections
- Of Justification Augsburg Confession
Stanza Arc
The narrative or theological arc traced by this tune's stanzas: From personal surrender to Christ's lordship, through patient faith and witness of salvation, to proclamation of Christ as the promised light for all nations
Themes
redemption through Christ peace and assurance messianic fulfillment faithful old age death and eternal life