The Feast of the Presentation is filled with light and joy. It is the day, referred to in the past at "Candlemass Day", the day with the candles to be used in liturgical worship for the next year were blessed, and takes its cue from the words of the old Simeon who, in his joy at recognizing the Messiah, referred to him as "a light for revelation to the Gentiles,/ and glory for your people Israel." (Lk 2: 32). Can we imagine this man's joy when after being told he would not die until he had seen the "salvation of Israel," the Messiah and waiting many years, actually recognized this child as the promised one? He certainly was now ready to take his leave in peace.
And what did Mary feel? Doesn't a mother always hope for the best for her child, even when still carrying him or her in her womb? Then to have this holy man speak with such authority, not only about the child, but about her fate as the bearer of a sword of sorrow, and as we know, seven swords! Mixed emotions for sure as the prophetess Anna also gives praise and thanks for this baby.
We pray that we might so recognize Jesus, and be willing to continue bringing his light to the world, even with the swords of sorrow that accompany the joy that fills our hearts as it did those of Simeon and Anna..
Let us pray with Simeon:
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.
Bro. Rene
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