We are a joyful community of disciples proclaiming the Good News and inviting all people to encounter the love and mercy of Jesus Christ.
"Thus says the Lord GOD: Lo, I am sending my messenger to prepare the way before me"
(Malachi 3:1)
Prepare for the Lord
Today marks the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord, when Jesus was brought to the Temple to be consecrated to God. However, unlike a common child, Jesus had no need for consecration. As described in our first reading in Malachi, the messenger is sent to purify others because He is already glorious in the eyes of the Lord. Malachi states that Jesus will be like a purifying fire, which is painful and destroys the unrighteous, but refines and elevates those that wish to work with God.
Further as our reading from Hebrews states, Jesus did not come to sentence the impure to death, but to free them from death. By our baptism, we were anointed priest, prophet, and king meaning that we too are the sons of Levi that Jesus will refine and save. Like Simeon in our Gospel, if we prepare ourselves to receive the Son of God, we too can be filled with joy at His coming. Also, like the prophecy given to Mary, to follow Jesus means to suffer for others. There are many things we must give up to God and many crosses we must pick up to accomplish His mission.
Further as our reading from Hebrews states, Jesus did not come to sentence the impure to death, but to free them from death. By our baptism, we were anointed priest, prophet, and king meaning that we too are the sons of Levi that Jesus will refine and save. Like Simeon in our Gospel, if we prepare ourselves to receive the Son of God, we too can be filled with joy at His coming. Also, like the prophecy given to Mary, to follow Jesus means to suffer for others. There are many things we must give up to God and many crosses we must pick up to accomplish His mission.
Let us shout boldy like Simeon: "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."
How can we be bold in following Christ?
Lord, send your messenger, Jesus, to enter our lives and turn us into proper servants. Let us rejoice in the sufferings that create our hearts anew and proclaim your glory to all the nations. Amen.
Reflection by:
David Wicklin currently attends St. Catherine of Sienna parish in Clearwater. After moving to Florida after college, he became involved in the young adult ministry and currently assists in teaching confirmation classes. He enjoys studying the bible and philosophy and hopes this daily ministry will assist in fostering that love in others.