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TODAY’S GOSPEL READING – 2 FEBRUARY

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TODAY’S GOSPEL READING
2 FEBRUARY, 2025
Luke 2:22-40

When the days were completed for their purification
according to the law of Moses,
Mary and Joseph took Jesus 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.

Now there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon.
This man was righteous and devout,
awaiting the consolation of Israel,
and the Holy Spirit was upon him.
It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit
that he should not see death
before he had seen the Christ of the Lord.
He came in the Spirit into the temple;
and when the parents brought in the child Jesus
to perform the custom of the law in regard to him,
he took him into his arms and blessed God, saying:

“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.”

The child’s father and mother were amazed at what was said about him;
and Simeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother,
“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.”
There was also a prophetess, Anna,
the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher.
She was advanced in years,
having lived seven years with her husband after her marriage,
and then as a widow until she was eighty-four.
She never left the temple,
but worshiped night and day with fasting and prayer.
And coming forward at that very time,
she gave thanks to God and spoke about the child
to all who were awaiting the redemption of Jerusalem.

When they had fulfilled all the prescriptions
of the law of the Lord,
they returned to Galilee, to their own town of Nazareth.
The child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom;
and the favor of God was upon him.

THE GOSPEL OF THE LORD!

REFLECTION

The presentation of Jesus in the temple reveals profound truths about obedience, faith, and hope. Mary and Joseph exemplify humility and devotion, adhering to the law of Moses in presenting their son to God. Their simple offering of two birds highlights their modesty, yet it also speaks of their trust in God’s providence. This act reminds us of the importance of dedicating all aspects of our lives to the Lord, no matter how small or ordinary they may seem.

Simeon’s encounter with Jesus is a testament to unwavering faith and the fulfillment of God’s promises. His joy upon seeing the Christ demonstrates the peace that comes from a life rooted in hope and guided by the Holy Spirit. His prophecy to Mary foretells the joy and sorrow intertwined in Christ’s mission, urging us to reflect on the sacrifices required to follow God’s will.

Anna, the prophetess, models a life of persistent worship, fasting, and prayer. Her recognition of Jesus as the Redeemer emphasizes the importance of spiritual vigilance. Together, Simeon and Anna represent the longing and faith of Israel, now fulfilled in Christ. This passage calls us to deeper trust in God’s plan and invites us to see Christ as the salvation and light for all people.


PRAYER

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of Your Son, Jesus, the light of salvation for all nations. Like Mary and Joseph, help us live lives of obedience and faith, dedicating all we have to You. Grant us the patience and hope of Simeon, trusting in Your promises even in times of waiting. May we be like Anna, steadfast in prayer and worship, recognizing Your presence in our lives. Strengthen us to embrace the joys and trials of discipleship. Fill us with Your wisdom and favor, that we may proclaim Your love and redemption to the world. Amen

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