As Mary and Joseph bring baby Jesus to the Jerusalem temple for dedication, this young couple finds themselves face to face with an elderly man named Simeon. As he takes the Christ child in his arms, he too breaks out in blessing and praise. Simeon's song reminds us that there are two ways to hold the Savior in our arms: for ourselves and for others. Even though his song of praise is marked by personal celebration for the fulfillment of God's plan through years of waiting, he also celebrates God's saving inclusion of the Gentiles. This song provides the powerful reminder that Advent makes missionaries because true love always extends itself toward the other. In the spirit of Christmas, may we too be a missionary people.