The Fourth Joyful Mystery
The Presentation of the Child Jesus in the Temple Luke 2:23-38
When the days were completed for their purification according to the law of Moses, they 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,”i 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 Messiah 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 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.
Reflection: Let us come to understand this Mystery of Offering.
As we are offered – one by one in Baptism- brought into the Kingdom of God so does this offering need to take place – The Offering of one’s Son to God. We have been offered to God. God chooses those to whom shall serve through, with and in his Son. Chosen to serve – chosen especially to Be his Son so that God may work closely with his people as man.
The Presentation being in the Temple – The Temple being both Church and in man. Yes, there is a special presentation that occurs once a person is made clean and set before God- naked of all sin and displeasures. God accepts those souls as especially formed by his Son. Not that sin no longer occurs but the desire for sin has been washed away.
Those presented shall remain in the Temple of God.
This is for all – but mostly and especially the goal and Mystery for the priest. They are especially chosen to become Gods Son and remain with him forever.
Comments