A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Lk 2:22-35)
When the days were completed for their purification according to the law of Moses, the parents of Jesus took him up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord, just as it is written in the law of the Lord, Every male that opens the womb shall be consecrated to the Lord, and to offer the sacrifice of a pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons, in accordance with the dictate in the law of the Lord.
Mary and Joseph faithfully observe Jewish law by presenting Jesus in the temple to consecrate him to the Lord. They are not a wealthy couple, as evidenced by their gift of two young turtledoves offered for sacrifice. Luke relates their encounter with Simeon (and later the prophetess Anna) as he prophesies God’s fulfillment of promises in Jesus, who will be a sign of contradiction and that Mary will experience great sorrow in this unfolding: Simeon says, “Lord, now let your servant go in peace; your word has been fulfilled: my own eyes have seen the salvation which you prepared in the sight of every people, a light to reveal you to the nations and the glory of your people Israel.” Simeon proclaims that Jesus came not only for Jewish people but to bring salvation to all.
God, help me today see that you have spoken through the prophets and ultimately through Jesus, inviting all to redemption and salvation through faith in your Son. Luke says that Simeon took Jesus into his arms and blessed God. Open my eyes, Lord, to see the opportunity today to take Jesus into my arms and give you glory. I am struck by the poverty of Joseph and Mary, that out of that poverty they hold in their arms your inexhaustible treasure of love and mercy, Emmanuel—”God is with us.”
From the responsorial psalm: “The LORD made the heavens. Splendor and majesty go before him; praise and grandeur are in his sanctuary. Let the heavens be glad and the earth rejoice!” Glory to you, Lord, your word has been fulfilled!
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.