This Sunday we celebrated the Presentation of the Lord. We read about it in chapter 2 of Luke’s Gospel where Mary and Joseph bring Jesus to the temple in Jerusalem for the presentation, to consecrate their first born to God. Good Jews, they were being obedient to the Mosaic law.
Can you envision the scene? I think of a place like St. Patrick’s Cathedral. Cavernous. Beautiful. The aroma of incense floating in the air. People milling about while others are kneeling and praying. Here comes this young couple with their infant approaching the altar, probably a bit awestruck. An old man rushes up to them and grabs the baby. Mary’s in shock. Joseph is about to punch the man. Of course, baby Jesus is unphased. But Simeon cradles Jesus in his arms as his eyes follow the smoke of the incense rise to the highest arch above the altar. He blesses God and shares his prophecy. He tells them of Jesus’s destiny and of Mary’s calling to care for God’s gift to her of this baby, and how she herself will be pierced by a sword. I imagine Mary and Joseph standing there, agape, asking, “What did you say?” Verse 33 says they were amazed.
Are you amazed at God’s call on you? God calls all of us. He gives each of us unique talents and abilities. As obedient disciples, we are to receive them gratefully, develop and manage them well, and use them to serve others and build His kingdom. Do you acknowledge God for all your gifts and talents? Do you strive to use them in ways that honor Him? When you do, you are building your legacy. You are making a difference in the lives of your loved ones for the good of the community. You are being the disciple God calls you to be.
Praise God for all the blessings and benefits He gives to you. Give in return out of gratitude and love to honor God for His gifts to you.
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