Sunday Feb 2nd, Feast of the Presentation of the Lord, Theme: “The Light of Revelation: Celebrating the Presentation of the Lord”
Today is the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord, also known as Candlemas. It commemorates an important event in the lives of Jesus Christ, Mary and Joseph, and the early Christian church. According to Jewish law, it commemorates the 40th day after Jesus’ birth, when Mary and Joseph presented him in the Temple. To appreciate the significance of this feast, let us draw lessons from the readings.
Purifying Fire:
The prophet Malachi describes a messenger who will prepare the way for the Lord by purifying people like gold and silver in a furnace (Malachi 3:2-3). This messenger is John the Baptist, who laid the groundwork for Jesus’ career. The text reminds us that the Lord’s arrival provides purification and refinement, removing our impurities and preparing us to stand before Him.
Hebrews 2:14–18: The Shared Humanity
The author of Hebrews emphasises Jesus’ shared humanity with us, stating that He took on our flesh and blood to destroy the power of death and the devil (Hebrews 2:14-15).
Jesus’ appearance in the Temple heralds the beginning of His public existence, in which He will combat and eventually defeat the powers of darkness.
Luke 2:22-40: The Light of Revelation
The Gospel of Luke depicts Jesus’ presentation in the Temple. Simeon, a blameless and pious man, recognises the infant Jesus as the Light of Revelation to the Gentiles (Luke 2:32). Simeon’s prophetic words emphasise Jesus’ mission of bringing light to the nations, a motif that runs throughout the Gospel.
Significance of the Feast In Jewish law, presenting a firstborn male child in the Temple was a significant ceremony demonstrating the kid’s devotion to God (Exodus 13:2, 12-13). By presenting Jesus in the Temple, Mary and Joseph fulfilled this requirement, proving their adherence to the Torah and faith in God’s plan.
The Light We Carry: Candlemas Tradition.
At this feast, we carry candles to symbolise the Light of Revelation that Jesus brings. This ritual, known as Candlemas, reminds us that we are expected to take this light, shining brilliantly in a world frequently covered in darkness. Holding these candles reminds us of our call to be lights in the world, reflecting Christ’s glory.
Prophetess Anna is a model of faithfulness.
The Gospel of Luke also introduces us to Prophetess Anna, a devoted and trustworthy lady who identified the child Jesus as the Messiah (Luke 2:36-38). Anna’s story is a strong reminder of the value of fidelity and devotion. Despite her late age and widowhood, Anna remained steadfast, praying and fasting in the Temple. Her example inspires us to continue on our own faith journey, believing in God’s purpose and promises.
What does it mean for us today?
As we commemorate this feast, we are reminded of several crucial lessons:
- Purification and Refinement: As the prophet Malachi described the purifying fire, we are also asked to purify and refine our lives. We must allow God to purify us so that we can stand before Him.
- Shared Humanity: Jesus reminds us of our own vulnerabilities and weaknesses. But it also gives us hope because we know Jesus knows our challenges and is with us on our path.
- The Light of Revelation: Simeon’s prophecy highlights Jesus’ purpose of bringing light to all nations. As followers of Christ, we are asked to be bearers of this light, shining brightly in a world frequently covered in darkness.
- Faithfulness and Trust: Mary and Joseph’s adherence to the law and trust in God’s plan set a tremendous example for us. We, too, must endeavour to remain faithful and trusting, even when the future appears uncertain.
- Be a Light in the World: Carrying candles reminds us to mirror and reflect splendour. May our lives be a shining example of the power of faith, hope, and love.
May we carry these lessons with us and examine them in our hearts. May the Light of Revelation shine brightly within us, leading us and illuminating the way forward.
Happy Sunday and Feast Day!
