Luke 2:22-35
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,” 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.”
Grace Prayed For
The Grace of Universal Love: Simeon recognized Jesus as a light for all people. Pray for the grace to see the world through this lens of God’s universal love. Ask for the ability to overcome prejudice and share God’s love with everyone you encounter.
A Light Dawns in the Temple: A Reflection on Simeon and the Presentation
This passage from the Gospel of Luke offers a beautiful glimpse of the presentation of Jesus in the temple and the profound encounter between Simeon, a righteous man, and the Messiah. Here are some reflections to ponder:
- Fulfilling the Law: Mary and Joseph, following Jewish tradition, present Jesus in the temple according to the Law of Moses. This act of obedience foreshadows Jesus’ own submission to God’s will throughout his life.
- The Holy Spirit’s Guidance: Simeon, led by the Holy Spirit, is waiting for a specific sign – to see the Messiah. This highlights the role of the Holy Spirit in guiding us towards God’s purposes. Are we attentive to the nudges of the Holy Spirit in our own lives?
- A Long-Awaited Promise: Simeon’s words, “Now, Master, you may let your servant go in peace,” express a deep yearning for the fulfillment of God’s promise. This can remind us of our own longings for peace, purpose, and the culmination of God’s work in our lives.
- A Light for All Peoples: Simeon recognizes Jesus not just as a savior for Israel, but as “a light for revelation to the Gentiles.” This signifies the universality of God’s love and salvation through Jesus.
- A Sign of Contradiction: Simeon’s prophecy about Jesus being “a sign that will be contradicted” foreshadows the challenges and conflicts Jesus will face. This reminds us that following Jesus isn’t always easy, but it is ultimately a path of truth and love.
- Mary’s Sword of Sorrow: Simeon’s words to Mary, “a sword will pierce your heart,” offer a glimpse into the future suffering Mary will endure as the mother of Jesus. This foreshadows the sacrifices inherent in following Jesus’ path.
How can this passage help you grow closer to Jesus?
- Seek the Holy Spirit’s Guidance: Pray for the discernment to recognize the Holy Spirit’s leading in your life, guiding you towards God’s will.
- Embrace God’s Universal Love: Reflect on the message of Jesus as a light for all people. How can you share this message of love and acceptance with others?
- Prepare for Challenges: Following Jesus doesn’t guarantee an easy path. Be prepared for difficulties, but remember that God’s grace is sufficient.
- Develop Compassion for Jesus and Mary: Contemplate the challenges Jesus and Mary faced. This can cultivate empathy and a deeper appreciation for their sacrifice.
This reflection is just a starting point. As you ponder these themes, pray for a deeper understanding of Jesus’ purpose and the significance of his arrival in the world.
Growing in Intimacy with Jesus
Appreciating the Role of the Holy Spirit: The Holy Spirit guides Simeon to the temple and reveals Jesus to him. This reminds you of the Holy Spirit’s role in your own life, guiding you towards Jesus. By recognizing this guidance, you open yourself to a deeper connection with both Jesus and the Holy Spirit.
Sharing
Jesus last words on Earth were to his disciples, can be found in Matthew Chap 28 when Jesus told his disciples, “Then Jesus approached and said to them, “All power in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, until the end of the age.”
Jesus calls all of us to share in his redemptive mission here on Earth. I would ask you to share this Scripture reflection with your family, your friends and your acquaintances, and then share it with a couple of individuals that you may may not be comfortable sharing with, keeping in mind always the words of Jesus, And behold, I am with you always, until the end of the age
Author was assisted by AI in the drafting of this Post