Today we celebrate the Feast of the Presentation of the Child Jesus in the Temple. It is forty days after the Solemnity of the Birth of the Nativity. According to Jewish tradition, forty days after birth, the first-born male must be brought to the Temple to be presented to the Lord.The prophet Malachi speaks of a messenger who will be sent to prepare the way for the Lord, and he will refine them like gold and silver, and will purify the sons of Levi that they may offer due sacrifice to the Lord.
In the letter to the Hebrews the author says that Jesus shared in the flesh and blood of God’s children, becoming like them in every way that He might be a merciful and faithful High Priest before God to expiate the sins of the people.
The Gospel tells us that, when the Child was brought to the Temple, Simeon carried Him in his arms and, inspired by the Holy Spirit, prophesied and praised God, calling Jesus, the light of the world, the long-awaited Savior of humankind.How blessed was Simeon! He took the Infant Jesus in his arms and blessed God: “Master, now you are dismissing your servant in peace, according to your word; for my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the presence of all peoples; a light for revelation to the Gentiles and for glory to your people Israel.”
Mary and Joseph knew that their baby was the Son of God. There was no need to present Him in the Temple. But in obedience to the Mosaic Law, they went there to do what the law prescribed. Obedience is never easy because it means surrendering one’s self to the authority of another person. But for Jesus, Mary and Joseph, it is not difficult because they are truly humble in spirit. As Christians, we should have these qualities of humble obedience and generosity. Obedience is the fruit of humility and generosity. In the end, let us follow the example of the Holy Family in fulfilling God’s Will; open to the Holy Spirit, like Simeon and Anna, that we grow strong in faith and wisdom before God and people. And with the Psalmist we say: “O gates, lift your heads, O gates! And be lifted up O ancient doors! that the King of glory may come in!” Blessings. Fr. Mussie