As we prepare to take down the Manger after this weekend’s Feast of the Lord’s Presentation, we are called to continue to embrace the Child. Both Simeon and Anna in today’s Gospel recognized the identity of the Child immediately. He was the reason why they spent the entirety of their lives in the Temple. It is now time for all of us to see what they saw and listen to His message. He calls us to faith, hope, and charity. He desires for us to live the faith with an overwhelming sense of joy and enthusiasm. The devil will try to sow seeds of despair, uncertainty, and confusion. He will try to distract us. Do not let him prevail. When God created the world, He put order into the chaos. The devil seeks to put chaos back into the order. Reflect today on the words of Simeon:
“Now, Master, you may let your servant go in peace, according to your word, for my eyes have seen your salvation, which you prepared in the sight of all the peoples: a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and glory for your people Israel. Behold, this child is destined for the fall and rise of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be contradicted, and you yourself a sword will pierce, so that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”
Sincerely Yours in Christ,
Fr. Wayne