Fidelity to God assures us of the presence of God

1 Jn 2:3-11, Lk. 2:22-35. Today's first reading teaches us that fidelity and love are the surest ways to walk in the presence of God as His faithful people. In today's Gospel, Mary and Joseph also showed fidelity to the Mosaic Law by offering the simple sacrifice in the Temple that was expected from poor people: "A pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons." Two other devout people, whom the prophets referred to as the Lord’s favourites: the poor and lowly, faithful ones, were Simeon and Anna, elderly Jews dedicated to prayer and fasting and regular worship in the Temple. Their religious spirit helped them to recognise the child Jesus as the long-awaited Messiah. Simeon’s joyful song to the child shows that prayer and contemplation are very important to our existence. People who pray, like Simeon and Anna, are fully open to the breath of the Spirit.

Simeon’s prophecy about Mary’s future sorrow was like another divine message to Mary predicting how her Son will accomplish His mission through pain and rejection. However, looking to the further horizon, Simeon foresees a magnificent outcome, the “rising” of many, into the light of God’s grace. The story of Simeon teaches us that hope will be realised someday if not immediately and God will fulfil His promises to everyone. Going to the Temple in the midst of many couples who were taking their children, he sees the realisation of his hope and the hope of the people: “My eyes have seen the salvation, which you have made ready in the sight of the nations, a light of revelation for the Gentiles and glory for your people Israel.” In a weak defenseless child, Simeon shows us how to end each day, in peace with God.

May the Lord look favourably upon us and dispel from us the shadows of this world, as we praise and glorify His birth as man! Amen!! Keep safe and have a pleasant day!!!