Presentation of the Lord, Thursday – 02nd February 2023 — Gospel: Luke 2,22-40
The Child who Renews the Earth
The presentation of the child Jesus takes place in Jerusalem temple. This event focuses the attention on the fragile and vulnerable baby. In fulfillment of the demands of Old Testament Jewish regulations, Mary and Joseph brought Jesus to the temple. Mary offered the sacrifice that “purified” her and at the same time “ransomed” her firstborn. Jesus’ presentation signifies God’s entrance into His temple. He was also presented to those who were really awaiting in hope for Him. Mary’s ritual purification indicates the renewal of the total offering of herself to God in order to accomplish His Divine Plan. The announcement of the elderly spoke of the Lord’s work of redemption that the child would complete. In his prophecy he associated baby Jesus with His mother for its accomplishment. Simeon and Anna waited patiently to celebrate the happy coming of the Child who was to renew the face of the earth. They sought to love, worship and serve Jesus, who is the light of salvation to everyone on earth.
