But the reading from the day before lingers, one of the most intense in the Gospels. What is its appeal – it is a sort of final acceptance, a laying down of the burden which will come to all of us.

“Now Master, you can let your servant go in peace, just as you promised, because my eyes have seen the salvation, which you have prepared before all the nations, a light to enlighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel.” (Luke 2:29-32)