Consider the blessings that Christ brings into our lives each day
Reflections on the readings for the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord (February 2, 2021): MAL 3:1-4; PS 24:7,8,9,10; HEB 2:14-18; LK 2:22-40
MISSIO offers “Mission In Scripture” to nurture a missionary heart, providing reflections on the missionary themes in the readings of Sundays, Feast Days and Holy Days.
We are ultimately aiming for the fulfillment of God’s Kingdom where all will be revealed.
On this day we venerate the Son of God made flesh when the Blessed Virgin Mary and St. Joseph brought Him to the Jerusalem Temple in obedience to the laws of their people. Jesus was presented and consecrated as was expected of all firstborn sons. Just as Mary and Joseph had obeyed the civil law in going to Bethlehem for the census, they now did what was required of them religiously. The Mother of God humbly carried her baby, the Son of the Eternal Father, to do what was required of them. In today’s reading from the letter to the Hebrews, St. Paul reminds us: “He had to become like His brothers and sisters in every way, that He might be a merciful and faithful high priest before God to expiate the sins of the people. Because He Himself was tested through what He suffered, He is able to help those who are being tested” (Hebrews 2:17-18). Jesus came to save us from our sins, to redeem us from death. Because He was not only God but also man, He knew the pain of human life. He would have this in common with each one of us. So we will never experience suffering or temptation that He has not.
This feast day that is also known as Candlemas is a good opportunity to consider the blessings that Christ brings into our lives each day. The Light of the World calls us to reflect that light in our lives and to let others see His goodness and compassion in us. It is tradition that candles are blessed and distributed at churches. They are lovely symbols of the bright truth that shines through our faith in our Lord. They are a reminder that whatever the darkness that may shadow our time on earth it will be extinguished in heaven. We are ultimately aiming for the fulfillment of God’s Kingdom where all will be revealed. In the light of His shining brilliance we spend our eternity.
Suggested missionary action: Just as Jesus was presented to God at the temple, we can present ourselves to Him each day. We can offer ourselves to share His light and love with all we meet. We can even light a candle to say, “Thank You!”