The Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary

1 Macc. 2:15-29, Lk. 19:41-44.
Sometimes our actions are guided by popular acclamation. The life of Mattathias in today's first reading challenges us to stay away from popular opinion and stand for what is true. Let us be challenged by the truth, to stand for whatever is right and virtuous without prejudice to popular acclamation. Difficult as it may be, the most important thing in life is to seek the path of peace that Christ desired for us. The thirst for peace is expressed in the cry of Jesus over Jerusalem in today's Gospel. Peace brings joy and freedom in human lives. The true source of peace is God’s presence and right relationship with Him.

The Jerusalem Temple was the symbol of God’s presence and His working among the people. The destruction of the Temple meant the destruction of peace forever. Jesus knew that the lack of faith in God and respect for His prophets would lead to the destruction of the Temple. God’s presence would be rescinded painfully from among the people. Peace disappears when God’s place become immaterial and His role is undermined. As we celebrate the Feast of the Presentation of Our Lady, we need to restore God’s presence in our lives by sincere repentance and desire for holiness. The focus of today's Feast was completely to tell us how Mary was dedicated to God from the beginning. Several Church Fathers such as Germanus, Patriarch of Constantinople and his contemporary John Damascene, referred to Mary as God’s special flower which was being nurtured for better things: “She was planted in the House of God, nourished by the Holy Spirit and kept her body and soul spotless to receive God in her bosom."

May the Lord show His mercy and help us to stand for the truth in all circumstances! Amen!! Good morning and have a wonderful day!!!