Breaking the Word

Presentation of the Lord, Wednesday – 02^nd February 2022 — 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.

4^th Week in Ord. Time, Tuesday – 01^st February 2022 — Gospel: Mark 5,21-43

Dispel Fear Through Faith

Fear and misunderstanding can block the love and compassion that God has for each of us. In the Gospel, both Jairus and the woman with the hemorrhages first acted out of belief in Jesus. They thought that Jesus might bring healing and new life into their lives. As things unfold, both change to a sense of fear. The woman is afraid when she realizes that she is healed and when Jesus is asking who touched him. In the same way, Jairus and his household fear when they hear that the beloved daughter is dead, so that Jesus’ help is not needed thereafter. The fear comes from misunderstanding about Jesus and his desire to bring wholeness and healing into people’s lives.  Ordinarily, fear can cause various reactions in people. Fear can debilitate and rob a person of the strength they need to do what is necessary. This type of fear can block one from receiving the gifts which God intends for us. On the other hand, fear can also cause one to be energized and perform beyond one’s expectation. When we experience fear, it can move us closer to God, if we have faith. Jesus’ compassion and love, dispels fear and reassures the healed woman and Jairus of their earlier faith. Allowing misunderstanding and fear, we limit the fullness of God’s power in our lives. Accepting God’s love and compassion we can overcome the negative aspects of fear. For this reason, John writes, “There is no fear in love. Perfect love drives our fear” (1 Jn 4,18).