[Salvation]

Homily of the Day

February 2, 2018

Every individual God puts in our lives has a definite purpose. In the Gospel about the Presentation of Jesus God gives such specific roles to key people.

Through the pious man Simeon and the prophetess Anna God makes clear that Jesus indeed is the promised Messiah. Simeon and Anna also remind us of the value of silence and prayer: they devote their lives to prayer before God.

In our fast-paced world, we have little time for quiet and prayer. In their prayer God promised Simeon and Anna that they would see the Messiah. They were richly rewarded, “Now, O Lord, you can dismiss your servant in peace, for you have fulfilled your word and my eyes have seen your salvation.” (Lk 2: 29)

The Gospel tells us that in silence and prayer we find God.

[Salvation]

One Bread, One Body

One Bread, One Body

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All Issues > Volume 34, Issue 2

<< Friday, February 2, 2018 >>

Presentation of the Lord

Malachi 3:1-4
Hebrews 2:14-18
View Readings

Psalm 24:7-10
Luke 2:22-40
Similar Reflections

PRESENT-ABLE?

Mary and Joseph "came to offer in sacrifice 'a pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons.' " —Luke 2:24

In presenting their children to the Lord, Jewish parents made a small sacrifice in place of sacrificing their children. However, in Jesus' Presentation, a small sacrifice did not replace a great sacrifice; rather, it prefigured Jesus' ultimate sacrifice on Calvary. Therefore, Jesus' Presentation is not a calling to less sacrifice but to sharing in Jesus' perfect sacrifice.

Today, we are called to be like Mary and open our hearts to be pierced with a sword of suffering (Lk 2:35). We are called to be like Anna, "worshiping day and night in fasting and prayer" (Lk 2:37). We should be like the candles blessed at Mass today and decide to be consumed as was Jesus so that His light will shine to all the world.

Today is a day of being crucified with Christ (Gal 2:19) and of finding our joy in suffering (Col 1:24) according to the pattern of His death (Phil 3:10). The Presentation is no longer in the Temple but at the cross. In love, present yourself to the Lord.

Prayer: Lord, in the school of unconditional love, teach me how to suffer.

Promise: "Now, Master, You can dismiss Your servant in peace; You have fulfilled Your word." —Lk 2:29

Praise: We praise You, Jesus, the Light of the World! Praise You for giving us the light of life (Jn 8:12). Alleluia!