The Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph
Lectionary: 17
Lectionary: 17
God sets a father
in honor over his children;
a mother’s authority he confirms over her sons.
Whoever honors his father atones for sins,
and preserves himself from them.
When he prays, he is heard;
he stores up riches who reveres his mother.
Whoever honors his father is gladdened by children,
and, when he prays, is heard.
Whoever reveres his father will live a long life;
he who obeys his father brings comfort to his mother.
My son, take care of your father when he is old;
grieve him not as long as he lives.
Even if his mind fail, be considerate of him;
revile him not all the days of his life;
kindness to a father will not be forgotten,
firmly planted against the debt of your sins
—a house raised in justice to you.
a mother’s authority he confirms over her sons.
Whoever honors his father atones for sins,
and preserves himself from them.
When he prays, he is heard;
he stores up riches who reveres his mother.
Whoever honors his father is gladdened by children,
and, when he prays, is heard.
Whoever reveres his father will live a long life;
he who obeys his father brings comfort to his mother.
My son, take care of your father when he is old;
grieve him not as long as he lives.
Even if his mind fail, be considerate of him;
revile him not all the days of his life;
kindness to a father will not be forgotten,
firmly planted against the debt of your sins
—a house raised in justice to you.
The word of the
LORD came to Abram in a vision, saying:
“Fear not, Abram!
I am your shield;
I will make your reward very great.”
But Abram said,
“O Lord GOD, what good will your gifts be,
if I keep on being childless
and have as my heir the steward of my house, Eliezer?”
Abram continued,
“See, you have given me no offspring,
and so one of my servants will be my heir.”
Then the word of the LORD came to him:
“No, that one shall not be your heir;
your own issue shall be your heir.”
The Lord took Abram outside and said,
“Look up at the sky and count the stars, if you can.
Just so,” he added, “shall your descendants be.”
Abram put his faith in the LORD,
who credited it to him as an act of righteousness.
The LORD took note of Sarah as he had said he would;
he did for her as he had promised.
Sarah became pregnant and bore Abraham a son in his old age,
at the set time that God had stated.
Abraham gave the name Isaac to this son of his
whom Sarah bore him.
“Fear not, Abram!
I am your shield;
I will make your reward very great.”
But Abram said,
“O Lord GOD, what good will your gifts be,
if I keep on being childless
and have as my heir the steward of my house, Eliezer?”
Abram continued,
“See, you have given me no offspring,
and so one of my servants will be my heir.”
Then the word of the LORD came to him:
“No, that one shall not be your heir;
your own issue shall be your heir.”
The Lord took Abram outside and said,
“Look up at the sky and count the stars, if you can.
Just so,” he added, “shall your descendants be.”
Abram put his faith in the LORD,
who credited it to him as an act of righteousness.
The LORD took note of Sarah as he had said he would;
he did for her as he had promised.
Sarah became pregnant and bore Abraham a son in his old age,
at the set time that God had stated.
Abraham gave the name Isaac to this son of his
whom Sarah bore him.
Responsorial PsalmPS 128:1-2, 3, 4-5
R/ (cf. 1) Blessed are those who fear the Lord and walk
in his ways.
Blessed is everyone who fears the LORD,
who walks in his ways!
For you shall eat the fruit of your handiwork;
blessed shall you be, and favored.
R/ Blessed are those who fear the Lord and walk in his ways.
Your wife shall be like a fruitful vine
in the recesses of your home;
your children like olive plants
around your table.
R/ Blessed are those who fear the Lord and walk in his ways.
Behold, thus is the man blessed
who fears the LORD.
The LORD bless you from Zion:
may you see the prosperity of Jerusalem
all the days of your life.
R/ Blessed are those who fear the Lord and walk in his ways.
Blessed is everyone who fears the LORD,
who walks in his ways!
For you shall eat the fruit of your handiwork;
blessed shall you be, and favored.
R/ Blessed are those who fear the Lord and walk in his ways.
Your wife shall be like a fruitful vine
in the recesses of your home;
your children like olive plants
around your table.
R/ Blessed are those who fear the Lord and walk in his ways.
Behold, thus is the man blessed
who fears the LORD.
The LORD bless you from Zion:
may you see the prosperity of Jerusalem
all the days of your life.
R/ Blessed are those who fear the Lord and walk in his ways.
R/ (7a , 8a) The Lord remembers his covenant for ever.
Give thanks to the LORD, invoke his name;
make known among the nations his deeds.
Sing to him, sing his praise,
proclaim all his wondrous deeds.
R/ The Lord remembers his covenant for ever.
Glory in his holy name;
rejoice, O hearts that seek the LORD!
Look to the LORD in his strength;
constantly seek his face.
R/ The Lord remembers his covenant for ever.
You descendants of Abraham, his servants,
sons of Jacob, his chosen ones!
He, the LORD, is our God;
throughout the earth his judgments prevail.
R/ The Lord remembers his covenant for ever.
He remembers forever his covenant
which he made binding for a thousand generations
which he entered into with Abraham
and by his oath to Isaac.
R/ The Lord remembers his covenant for ever.
Give thanks to the LORD, invoke his name;
make known among the nations his deeds.
Sing to him, sing his praise,
proclaim all his wondrous deeds.
R/ The Lord remembers his covenant for ever.
Glory in his holy name;
rejoice, O hearts that seek the LORD!
Look to the LORD in his strength;
constantly seek his face.
R/ The Lord remembers his covenant for ever.
You descendants of Abraham, his servants,
sons of Jacob, his chosen ones!
He, the LORD, is our God;
throughout the earth his judgments prevail.
R/ The Lord remembers his covenant for ever.
He remembers forever his covenant
which he made binding for a thousand generations
which he entered into with Abraham
and by his oath to Isaac.
R/ The Lord remembers his covenant for ever.
Reading 2 COL 3:12-21
Brothers and
sisters:
Put on, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved,
heartfelt compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience,
bearing with one another and forgiving one another,
if one has a grievance against another;
as the Lord has forgiven you, so must you also do.
And over all these put on love,
that is, the bond of perfection.
And let the peace of Christ control your hearts,
the peace into which you were also called in one body.
And be thankful.
Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly,
as in all wisdom you teach and admonish one another,
singing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs
with gratitude in your hearts to God.
And whatever you do, in word or in deed,
do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus,
giving thanks to God the Father through him.
Wives, be subordinate to your husbands,
as is proper in the Lord.
Husbands, love your wives,
and avoid any bitterness toward them.
Children, obey your parents in everything,
for this is pleasing to the Lord.
Fathers, do not provoke your children,
so they may not become discouraged.
Put on, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved,
heartfelt compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience,
bearing with one another and forgiving one another,
if one has a grievance against another;
as the Lord has forgiven you, so must you also do.
And over all these put on love,
that is, the bond of perfection.
And let the peace of Christ control your hearts,
the peace into which you were also called in one body.
And be thankful.
Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly,
as in all wisdom you teach and admonish one another,
singing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs
with gratitude in your hearts to God.
And whatever you do, in word or in deed,
do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus,
giving thanks to God the Father through him.
Wives, be subordinate to your husbands,
as is proper in the Lord.
Husbands, love your wives,
and avoid any bitterness toward them.
Children, obey your parents in everything,
for this is pleasing to the Lord.
Fathers, do not provoke your children,
so they may not become discouraged.
Brothers and
sisters:
Put on, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved,
heartfelt compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience,
bearing with one another and forgiving one another,
if one has a grievance against another;
as the Lord has forgiven you, so must you also do.
And over all these put on love,
that is, the bond of perfection.
And let the peace of Christ control your hearts,
the peace into which you were also called in one body.
And be thankful.
Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly,
as in all wisdom you teach and admonish one another,
singing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs
with gratitude in your hearts to God.
And whatever you do, in word or in deed,
do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus,
giving thanks to God the Father through him.
Put on, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved,
heartfelt compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience,
bearing with one another and forgiving one another,
if one has a grievance against another;
as the Lord has forgiven you, so must you also do.
And over all these put on love,
that is, the bond of perfection.
And let the peace of Christ control your hearts,
the peace into which you were also called in one body.
And be thankful.
Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly,
as in all wisdom you teach and admonish one another,
singing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs
with gratitude in your hearts to God.
And whatever you do, in word or in deed,
do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus,
giving thanks to God the Father through him.
Brothers and
sisters:
By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to a place
that he was to receive as an inheritance;
he went out, not knowing where he was to go.
By faith he received power to generate,
even though he was past the normal age
—and Sarah herself was sterile—
for he thought that the one who had made the promise was trustworthy.
So it was that there came forth from one man,
himself as good as dead,
descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky
and as countless as the sands on the seashore.
By faith Abraham, when put to the test, offered up Isaac,
and he who had received the promises was ready to offer
his only son,
of whom it was said,
“Through Isaac descendants shall bear your name.”
He reasoned that God was able to raise even from the dead,
and he received Isaac back as a symbol.
By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to a place
that he was to receive as an inheritance;
he went out, not knowing where he was to go.
By faith he received power to generate,
even though he was past the normal age
—and Sarah herself was sterile—
for he thought that the one who had made the promise was trustworthy.
So it was that there came forth from one man,
himself as good as dead,
descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky
and as countless as the sands on the seashore.
By faith Abraham, when put to the test, offered up Isaac,
and he who had received the promises was ready to offer
his only son,
of whom it was said,
“Through Isaac descendants shall bear your name.”
He reasoned that God was able to raise even from the dead,
and he received Isaac back as a symbol.
Alleluia COL 3:15A, 16A
R. Alleluia, alleluia.
Let the peace of Christ control your hearts;
let the word of Christ dwell in you richly.
R. Alleluia, alleluia.
Let the peace of Christ control your hearts;
let the word of Christ dwell in you richly.
R. Alleluia, alleluia.
Or HEB 1:1-2
R. Alleluia, alleluia.
In the past God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets;
in these last days, he has spoken to us through the Son.
R. Alleluia, alleluia.
In the past God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets;
in these last days, he has spoken to us through the Son.
R. Alleluia, alleluia.
Gospel LK 2:22-40
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 Christ 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.”
There was also a prophetess, Anna,
the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher.
She was advanced in years,
having lived seven years with her husband after her marriage,
and then as a widow until she was eighty-four.
She never left the temple,
but worshiped night and day with fasting and prayer.
And coming forward at that very time,
she gave thanks to God and spoke about the child
to all who were awaiting the redemption of Jerusalem.
When they had fulfilled all the prescriptions
of the law of the Lord,
they returned to Galilee,
to their own town of Nazareth.
The child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom;
and the favor of God was upon him.
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 Christ 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.”
There was also a prophetess, Anna,
the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher.
She was advanced in years,
having lived seven years with her husband after her marriage,
and then as a widow until she was eighty-four.
She never left the temple,
but worshiped night and day with fasting and prayer.
And coming forward at that very time,
she gave thanks to God and spoke about the child
to all who were awaiting the redemption of Jerusalem.
When they had fulfilled all the prescriptions
of the law of the Lord,
they returned to Galilee,
to their own town of Nazareth.
The child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom;
and the favor of God was upon him.
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.
When they had fulfilled all the prescriptions
of the law of the Lord,
they returned to Galilee,
to their own town of Nazareth.
The child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom;
and the favor of God was upon him.
according to the law of Moses,
they took him up to Jerusalem
to present him to the Lord.
When they had fulfilled all the prescriptions
of the law of the Lord,
they returned to Galilee,
to their own town of Nazareth.
The child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom;
and the favor of God was upon him.
Scripture Study
December 28, 2014 The Holy Family
This Sunday, often called the Sunday in the
Octave of Christmas, the Church celebrates the Feast of the Holy Family. Having
spent four Sundays and most of December preparing for Christmas, the Lectionary
(book of readings) insists on holding onto Christmas for longer than the one
day that the secular world keeps it. Liturgically the Christmas season lasts
from the evening prayer on Christmas Eve until the Feast of the Baptism of the
Lord. During the Sundays of this time the readings focus on different aspects
of the Christmas event.
First Reading: Genesis15:1-6; 21:1-3
15:1 Some time after these events, this word of the LORD
came to Abram in a vision:
“Fear not, Abram!
I am your shield;
I will make your reward very great.”
came to Abram in a vision:
“Fear not, Abram!
I am your shield;
I will make your reward very great.”
2 But Abram said, “O Lord GOD, what good will your gifts be,
if I keep on being childless and have as my heir the steward of my house,
Eliezer?” 3 Abram continued, “See, you have given me
no offspring, and so one of my servants will be my heir.” 4 Then the word of the LORD came to him: “No, that one shall
not be your heir; your own issue shall be your heir.” 5 He took him outside and said: “Look up at the sky and count
the stars, if you can. Just so,” he added, “shall your descendants be.” 6 Abram put his faith in the LORD, who credited it to him as
an act of righteousness.
21:1 The LORD took note of Sarah as he had said he would; he did
for her as he had promised. 2 Sarah became
pregnant and bore Abraham a son in his old age, at the set time that God had
stated.3 Abraham gave the name Isaac to this son of
his whom Sarah bore him.
NOTES on First Reading:
* 15:1 “These events” refers to the rescue, by
Abraham, of Lot and the other captives from Chedorlaomer and the kings allied
with him, after which, Abraham was blessed by Melchizedek.
* 15:6 Abraham’s faith in God’s promises was
regarded as an act of righteousness. It expressed the “right” attitude that a
man should have toward God. Paul will use Abraham’s faith as a model for that
of Christians (Romans 4:1-25; Gal 3:6-9).
* 21:1-7 Nearly every sentence in these verses
states the fulfillment of the divine promises. They indicate a major turning
point in the story.
* 21:1 The parallelism in the verse is
characteristic of Hebrew poetry and may reflect the oral tradition stage of the
national story of Israel.
* 21:2 God had promised Abraham a son the year
before (18:10).
* 21:3 The name Isaac had been given by God in
17:19 and implied in the word play of 18:12-15. It means “May God laugh in
delight, smile upon,” which both recalls and reverses the skepticism of both
Abraham and Sarah that was expressed when they heard the promise of a son a
year before.
OR
Alternate First Reading: Sirach 3:2-7, 12-14
2 For the LORD sets a father in honor over his children; a
mother’s authority he confirms over her sons. 3 He who honors his father atones for sins; 4 he stores up riches who reveres his mother. 5 He who honors his father is gladdened by children, and when
he prays he is heard. 6 He who reveres his father will live a long
life; he obeys the LORD who brings comfort to his mother. 12 My son, take care of your father when he is old; grieve him
not as long as he lives. 13 Even if his mind
fail, be considerate with him; revile him not in the fullness of your
strength. 14 For kindness to a father will not be
forgotten, it will serve as a sin offering–it will take lasting root.
NOTES on Alternate First Reading:
* 3:2-9 Here the writer enjoins special duties
toward others on us, such as honor and respect toward parents, with
corresponding blessings.
* 3:10-13 According to the sage this respect is
due even to old and infirm parents.
* 3:14, 15 Through it, the sins of the children
are pardoned. In the next verse (16) failure to render respect to parents is
equated with blasphemy and merits a curse from God. See also Exodus 20:12,
21:17; Deut 5:16; Tobit 4:3-4; Prov 1:8, 20:20; Matt 15:3-6; Eph 6:2-3.
Second Reading: Hebrews 11:8, 11-12, 17-19
8 By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to a
place that he was to receive as an inheritance; he went out, not knowing where
he was to go.[ 9 By faith he sojourned in the promised land
as in a foreign country, dwelling in tents with Isaac and Jacob, heirs of the
same promise; 10 for he was looking forward to the city
with foundations, whose architect and maker is God. ] 11 By faith he received power to generate, even though he was
past the normal age–and Sarah herself was sterile–for he thought that the one
who had made the promise was trustworthy. 12 So it was that there came forth from one man, himself as
good as dead, descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky and as countless
as the sands on the seashore.
[13 All these died in
faith. They did not receive what had been promised but saw it and greeted it
from afar and acknowledged themselves to be strangers and aliens on
earth, 14 for those who speak thus show that they
are seeking a homeland. 15 If they had been
thinking of the land from which they had come, they would have had opportunity
to return. 16 But now they desire a better homeland, a
heavenly one. Therefore, God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has
prepared a city for them.]
17 By faith Abraham, when put to the test, offered up Isaac,
and he who had received the promises was ready to offer his only son, 18 of whom it was said, “Through Isaac descendants shall bear
your name.” 19 He reasoned that God was able to raise
even from the dead, and he received Isaac back as a symbol.
NOTES on Second Reading:
* 11:8-9 See Gen 12:1,4; 15:16, 18; 26:3; 35:12.
* 11:10 By portraying Abraham as not concerned
with an earthly dwelling but rather as on a pilgrimage through earthly life he
is made to resemble a Christian whose true home is in the heavenly city.
* 11:13-16 In fact, it was Abraham who said this
(Gen 23:4) but the quote is attributed here to all the patriarchs. See also
Exod 3:6.
* 11:17-19 Abraham attempted to offer up Isaac
(Gen 22:1-19) but was stopped by “the angel of the Lord.”
* 11:19 Isaac’s deliverance from death was seen
as a symbol of Jesus’ resurrection.
OR
Alternate Second Reading: Colossians 3:12-21
12 Put on then, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved,
heartfelt compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience, 13 bearing with one another and forgiving one another, if one
has a grievance against another; as the Lord has forgiven you, so must you also
do. 14 And over all these put on love, that is,
the bond of perfection. 15 And let the peace
of Christ control your hearts, the peace into which you were also called in one
body. And be thankful. 16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you
richly, as in all wisdom you teach and admonish one another, singing psalms,
hymns, and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. 17 And whatever you do, in word or in deed, do everything in
the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. 18 Wives, be subordinate to your husbands, as is proper in the
Lord. 19Husbands, love your wives, and avoid any
bitterness toward them. 20 Children, obey
your parents in everything, for this is pleasing to the Lord. 21 Fathers, do not provoke your children, so they may not
become discouraged.
NOTES on Alternate Second Reading:
* 3:12-17 We are not only to do no harm to
anyone, but to do what good we can to all. The elect of God are holy and
beloved, and ought to be humble and compassionate towards all.
* 3:16 These inspired songs are probably
charismatic improvisations provided by the Holy Spirit during liturgical
assemblies. Instead of “the word of Christ” the earliest version of this may
have read simply, “the Word”.
* 3:18 Paul gives a general standard of behavior
here. The next few verses provide specific ways in which individuals will be
challenged to live out this general principle. The attitude of constant
thanksgiving to the Father through Christ is characteristic of one who follows
Jesus.
* 3:18-4:1 Paul here follows one of the common
literary conventions of the day. It was a common practice of that time for
morality writers to list the duties and responsibilities of various members of
a society or of a family. A similar listing of duties is found in Eph 5:21-6:9;
Col 3:18-4:1 and 1 Peter 2:18-3:7. One of the common criticisms of Christianity
in those days was that it caused rebellion and disregard for authority by
splitting households around the issue of religion. Pagans saw it as a threat to
the structures of society and a danger to the stability of the home and the
empire. The advice Paul gives is pretty much in line with the roles established
by pagan society. He is faced with society as it was in the first century so he
advised each member of that society to live out his/her role but to do it “in
the Lord”. While the outward appearances might not seem much different, the
motivation and guiding spirit of the actions were to be based in Christ. So
then, the wife submits not because society forces her to but to further the
interests of “the kingdom”. Just as Christ used His authority over the church
to save her and bring her to the Father, the husband is to use the authority
that society gives him over his family, not to dominate and seek his own
selfish satisfaction but rather to aid in the salvation and spiritual
development of his family and household.
* 3:18 The Greek word used here is “hupotasso”,
a Greek military term meaning “to arrange [troop divisions] in a military
fashion under the command of a leader”. In non-military use, it came to mean “a
voluntary attitude of giving in, cooperating, assuming responsibility, and
carrying a burden”. Thus the wife willingly places herself in this relationship
with her husband not because of his virtues or superiority but in order to
further the manifestation of “the Kingdom” in the world. Paul further develops
the view of marriage upon which this injunction is based in Eph 5:21-33.
Similar views are found in 1 Peter 3:1-7.
Gospel Reading: Luke 2:22-40
22 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, 23 just as it is written in the law of the
Lord, “Every male that opens the womb shall be consecrated to the Lord,” 24 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.
25 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. 26 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. 27 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, 28 he took him into his arms and blessed God,
saying:
29 “Now, Master, you may let your servant go
in peace, according to your word,
in peace, according to your word,
30 for my eyes have seen your salvation,
31 which you prepared in sight of all the peoples,
32 a light for revelation to the Gentiles,
and glory for your people Israel.”
and glory for your people Israel.”
33 The child’s father and mother were amazed at what was said
about him; 34 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 35 (and you yourself a sword will pierce) so that the thoughts
of many hearts may be revealed.” 36 There was also a
prophetess, Anna, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was
advanced in years, having lived seven years with her husband after her
marriage, 37 and then as a widow until she was
eighty-four. She never left the temple, but worshiped night and day with
fasting and prayer.38 And coming forward at that very time, she
gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who were awaiting the
redemption of Jerusalem.
39 When they had fulfilled all the prescriptions of the law of
the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their own town of Nazareth. 40 The child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom; and
the favor of God was upon him.
NOTES on Gospel:
* 2:22-40 The presentation of Jesus in the
temple depicts the parents of Jesus as devout Jews, faithful observers of the
law of the Lord (Luke 2:23-24,39), or the law of Moses. In this respect, they
are described in a fashion similar to the parents of John (Luke 1:6) and Simeon
(Luke 2:25) and Anna (Luke 2:36-37).
* 2:22 This verse refers to “their”
purification. Syntactically, their must refer to Mary and Joseph, even though
the Mosaic law never mentions the purification of the husband. In fact only the
mother went through a purification rite (Lev 12:6-8). According to the Mosaic
law (Lev 12:2-8), the woman who gives birth to a boy is unable for forty days
to touch anything sacred or to enter the temple area by reason of her legal or
ritual impurity. At the end of this period she is required to offer a year-old
lamb as a burnt offering and a turtledove or young pigeon as an expiation of
sin. The woman who could not afford a lamb offered instead two turtledoves or
two young pigeons, as Mary does here.
This was the occasion, however, for another ritual that did involve the infant Jesus. Every first born son was required to be presented to the Lord and then redeemed by the payment of five silver shekels to a member of a priestly family (Num 3:47-48, 18:15f). Luke says nothing about this legal requirement. They took him up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord and as the firstborn son (Luke 2:7) Jesus was consecrated to the Lord as the law required (Exodus 13:2,12). Although there was no requirement that this be done at the temple, the concept of a presentation at the temple was probably derived from the text of 1 Sam 1:24-28, where Hannah offers the child Samuel for sanctuary services. This ritual is in Luke’s mind in this episode because with it the Redeemer appears before the Lord, Himself redeemed and Daniel’s prophecy of the seventy weeks has been fulfilled in the consecration of “a most holy” (Daniel 9:20-24). This and two other Lucan favorite Old Testament passages are echoed here: Samuel’s presentation (1Sam 1:22-24) and the prophecy of the Lord coming to His temple (Mal 3:1-3).
Some Western scribes have understood the presentation of Jesus in the temple as a form of purification and have altered the text to read “his purification.” The Vulgate version has a Latin form that could be either “his” or “her.”
This was the occasion, however, for another ritual that did involve the infant Jesus. Every first born son was required to be presented to the Lord and then redeemed by the payment of five silver shekels to a member of a priestly family (Num 3:47-48, 18:15f). Luke says nothing about this legal requirement. They took him up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord and as the firstborn son (Luke 2:7) Jesus was consecrated to the Lord as the law required (Exodus 13:2,12). Although there was no requirement that this be done at the temple, the concept of a presentation at the temple was probably derived from the text of 1 Sam 1:24-28, where Hannah offers the child Samuel for sanctuary services. This ritual is in Luke’s mind in this episode because with it the Redeemer appears before the Lord, Himself redeemed and Daniel’s prophecy of the seventy weeks has been fulfilled in the consecration of “a most holy” (Daniel 9:20-24). This and two other Lucan favorite Old Testament passages are echoed here: Samuel’s presentation (1Sam 1:22-24) and the prophecy of the Lord coming to His temple (Mal 3:1-3).
Some Western scribes have understood the presentation of Jesus in the temple as a form of purification and have altered the text to read “his purification.” The Vulgate version has a Latin form that could be either “his” or “her.”
* 2:25 Simeon and Anna represent the hopes and
expectations of faithful and devout Jews who at this time were looking forward
to the restoration of God’s rule in Israel. The birth of Jesus brings these
hopes to fulfillment in a more complete way than they ever imagined. Both
Simeon and Anna are described in the same terms as the parents of John the
Baptizer. The name, Simeon, means “God has heard.”
* 2:27 Although Simeon was not a priest, both he
and Anna embodied the heart of the Temple cult of worship which was service of
God. The stage is set for the prayer of Simeon called the “Nunc Dimittis.” In
Simeon and Anna at the temple, the Law, the prophetic Spirit and the Temple
cult come together to proclaim the greatness of Jesus.
* 2:29-32 This prayer of Simeon has
traditionally been called the “Nunc Dimmitis” after the first two words in the
Latin translation of the text. In the Catholic Liturgy of the Hours it is used
each day as part of the night prayer (Compline). The vocabulary is largely
taken from Isaiah 52:9-10; 49:6; 46:13; 42:6; 40:5.
* 2:31-32 From the beginning of his gospel, Luke
insists that the salvation that is to come in Jesus will enfold all of Israel
and overflow to include the nations which will also be heirs of God’s promises.
* 2:34 Rejection of the Messiah which will be a
major theme in Luke’s gospel is foreshadowed here as is the cross which already
casts its shadow on the child’s future.
* 2:35 Simeon tells Mary that she herself will
not be untouched by the various reactions to the role of Jesus. Her blessedness
as mother of the Lord will be challenged by her Son who describes true
blessedness as “hearing the Word of God and observing it” (Luke 11:27-28 and
Luke 8:20-21). It is precisely in this “hearing of the Word of God” that Mary
is truly blessed. Her responsiveness to the “Word” enabled her to say yes to
God and it enables her to go through the transition from mother of Jesus to
disciple of Jesus.
The nearest Old Testament parallel is Ezek 14:17 and the sword of discrimination. This is an image of a selective sword of judgment that destroys some and spares others rather than a sword of punishment only. Mary too will one day have to decide for or against God’s revelation in Jesus. Family ties do not create faith.
The nearest Old Testament parallel is Ezek 14:17 and the sword of discrimination. This is an image of a selective sword of judgment that destroys some and spares others rather than a sword of punishment only. Mary too will one day have to decide for or against God’s revelation in Jesus. Family ties do not create faith.
* 2:36 The name, Anna, means “Grace or Favor.”
She like Simeon represents those who were waiting for the Lord. The pairing of
Simeon and Anna is like the pairing of Zechariah and Elizabeth in Chapter 1 and
foreshadows common theme in Luke. By this arrangement Luke expresses the idea
that man and woman stand together and side by side before the Lord. They have
the same grace, honor, gifts, and responsibilities before God (Gen 1:27; Gal
3:28). Such pairings include the widow of Sarepta and Naaman (4:25-28), the
healing of the demoniac and Peter’s mother-in -law (4:31-39), the centurion of
Capernaum and the widow of Nain (7:1-17), Simon and the sinful woman (7:36-50),
the women at the tomb and the Emmaus disciples (23:55-24:35), and finally Lydia
and the Philippian jailer (Acts 16:13-34).
* 2:40 This follows the pattern of John’s story
(1:80) and echoes the story of Samuel (1 Sam 2:21, 26).
Meditation: "The favor of God was upon him"
Do you know the favor
of the Lord? After Jesus' birth, Mary fulfills the Jewish right of purification
after childbirth. Since she could not afford the customary offering of a lamb,
she gives instead two pigeons as an offering of the poor. This rite, along with
circumcision and the redemption of the first-born point to the fact that
children are gifts from God. Jesus was born in an ordinary home where there
were no luxuries. Like all godly parents, Mary and Joseph raised their son in
the fear and wisdom of God. He, in turn, was obedient to them and grew in
wisdom and grace. The Lord's favor is with those who listen to his word with
trust and obedience. Do you know the joy of submission to God? And do you seek
to pass on the faith and to help the young grow in wisdom and maturity?
The Holy Spirit
reveals the presence of the Savior of the world
What is the significance of Simeon's encounter with the baby Jesus and his mother in the temple? Simeon was a just and devout man who was very much in tune with the Holy Spirit. He believed that the Lord would return to his temple and renew his chosen people. The Holy Spirit also revealed to him that the Messiah and King of Israel would also bring salvation to the Gentile nations. When Joseph and Mary presented the baby Jesus in the temple, Simeon immediately recognized this humble child of Bethlehem as the fulfillment of all the messianic prophecies, hopes, and prayers. Inspired by the Holy Spirit he prophesied that Jesus was to be "a revealing light to the Gentiles". The Holy Spirit reveals the presence of the Lord to those who are receptive and eager to receive him. Do you recognize the indwelling presence of the Lord with you?
What is the significance of Simeon's encounter with the baby Jesus and his mother in the temple? Simeon was a just and devout man who was very much in tune with the Holy Spirit. He believed that the Lord would return to his temple and renew his chosen people. The Holy Spirit also revealed to him that the Messiah and King of Israel would also bring salvation to the Gentile nations. When Joseph and Mary presented the baby Jesus in the temple, Simeon immediately recognized this humble child of Bethlehem as the fulfillment of all the messianic prophecies, hopes, and prayers. Inspired by the Holy Spirit he prophesied that Jesus was to be "a revealing light to the Gentiles". The Holy Spirit reveals the presence of the Lord to those who are receptive and eager to receive him. Do you recognize the indwelling presence of the Lord with you?
The 'new temple'
of God's presence in the world
Jesus is the new temple (John 1:14; 2:19-22). In the Old Testament God manifested his presence in the "pillar of cloud" by day and the "pillar of fire" by night as he led them through the wilderness. God's glory visibly came to dwell over the ark and the tabernacle (Exodus 40:34-38). When the first temple was built in Jerusalem God's glory came to rest there (1 Kings 8). After the first temple was destroyed, Ezekiel saw God's glory leave it (Ezekiel 10). But God promised one day to fill it with even greater glory (Haggai 2:1-9; Zechariah 8-9). That promise is fulfilled when the "King of Glory" himself comes to his temple (Psalm 24:7-10; Malachi 3:1). Through Jesus' coming in the flesh and through his saving death, resurrection, and ascension we are made living temples of his Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 3:16-17). Ask the Lord to renew your faith in the indwelling presence of his Spirit within you. And give him thanks and praise for coming to make his home with you.
Jesus is the new temple (John 1:14; 2:19-22). In the Old Testament God manifested his presence in the "pillar of cloud" by day and the "pillar of fire" by night as he led them through the wilderness. God's glory visibly came to dwell over the ark and the tabernacle (Exodus 40:34-38). When the first temple was built in Jerusalem God's glory came to rest there (1 Kings 8). After the first temple was destroyed, Ezekiel saw God's glory leave it (Ezekiel 10). But God promised one day to fill it with even greater glory (Haggai 2:1-9; Zechariah 8-9). That promise is fulfilled when the "King of Glory" himself comes to his temple (Psalm 24:7-10; Malachi 3:1). Through Jesus' coming in the flesh and through his saving death, resurrection, and ascension we are made living temples of his Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 3:16-17). Ask the Lord to renew your faith in the indwelling presence of his Spirit within you. And give him thanks and praise for coming to make his home with you.
Mary receives
both a crown of joy and a cross of sorrow
Simeon blessed Mary and Joseph and he prophesied to Mary about the destiny of this child and the suffering she would undergo for his sake. There is a certain paradox for those blessed by the Lord. Mary was given the blessedness of being the mother of the Son of God. That blessedness also would become a sword which pierced her heart as her Son died upon the cross. She received both a crown of joy and a cross of sorrow. But her joy was not diminished by her sorrow because it was fueled by her faith, hope, and trust in God and his promises. Jesus promised his disciples that "no one will take your joy from you" (John 16:22). The Lord gives us a supernatural joy which enables us to bear any sorrow or pain and which neither life nor death can take way. Do you know the peace and joy of a life surrendered to God with faith and trust?
Simeon blessed Mary and Joseph and he prophesied to Mary about the destiny of this child and the suffering she would undergo for his sake. There is a certain paradox for those blessed by the Lord. Mary was given the blessedness of being the mother of the Son of God. That blessedness also would become a sword which pierced her heart as her Son died upon the cross. She received both a crown of joy and a cross of sorrow. But her joy was not diminished by her sorrow because it was fueled by her faith, hope, and trust in God and his promises. Jesus promised his disciples that "no one will take your joy from you" (John 16:22). The Lord gives us a supernatural joy which enables us to bear any sorrow or pain and which neither life nor death can take way. Do you know the peace and joy of a life surrendered to God with faith and trust?
The Holy Spirit
renews our hope in the promise of God
Simeon was not alone in recognizing the Lord's presence in the temple. Anna, too, was filled with the Holy Spirit. She was found daily in the temple, attending to the Lord in prayer and speaking prophetically to others about God's promise to send a redeemer. Supernatural hope grows with prayer and age! Anna was pre-eminently a woman of great hope and expectation that God would fulfill all his promises. She is a model of godliness to all believers as we advance in age.
Simeon was not alone in recognizing the Lord's presence in the temple. Anna, too, was filled with the Holy Spirit. She was found daily in the temple, attending to the Lord in prayer and speaking prophetically to others about God's promise to send a redeemer. Supernatural hope grows with prayer and age! Anna was pre-eminently a woman of great hope and expectation that God would fulfill all his promises. She is a model of godliness to all believers as we advance in age.
Advancing age and the
disappointments of life can easily make us cynical and hopeless if we do not
have our hope rightly placed. Anna's hope in God and his promises grew with
age. She never ceased to worship God in faith and to pray with hope. Her hope
and faith in God's promises fueled her indomitable zeal and fervor in prayer
and service of God's people.
Our hope is
anchored in God's everlasting kingdom of righteousness, peace, and joy
What do you hope for? The hope which God places in our heart is the desire for the kingdom of heaven and everlasting life and happiness with our heavenly Father. The Lord Jesus has won for us a kingdom of righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit (Romans 14:17). The Holy Spirit gives hope to all who place their trust in the promises of God. God never fails because his promises are true and he is faithful. The hope which God places within us through the gift of the Spirit enables us to persevere with confident trust in God even in the face of trails, setbacks, and challenges that may come our way.
What do you hope for? The hope which God places in our heart is the desire for the kingdom of heaven and everlasting life and happiness with our heavenly Father. The Lord Jesus has won for us a kingdom of righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit (Romans 14:17). The Holy Spirit gives hope to all who place their trust in the promises of God. God never fails because his promises are true and he is faithful. The hope which God places within us through the gift of the Spirit enables us to persevere with confident trust in God even in the face of trails, setbacks, and challenges that may come our way.
Is there anything
holding you back from giving God your unqualified trust and submission to his
will for your life? Allow the Lord Jesus to flood your heart with his peace,
joy, and love. And offer to God everything you have and desire - your
life, family, friends, health, honor, wealth, and future. If you seek his kingdom
first he will give you everything you need to know, love, and serve him now and
enjoy him forever.
"Lord Jesus, you
are my hope and my life. May I never cease to place all my trust in you. Fill
me with the joy and strength of the Holy Spirit that I may boldly point others
to your saving presence and words of eternal life."
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Rooted in Love
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December 28,
2014. Feast of the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph
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Luke 2:22-40
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 Christ 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." There was
also a prophetess, Anna, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She
was advanced in years, having lived seven years with her husband after her
marriage, and then as a widow until she was eighty-four. She never left the
temple, but worshiped night and day with fasting and prayer. And coming
forward at that very time, she gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to
all who were awaiting the redemption of Jerusalem. When they had fulfilled
all the prescriptions of the law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to
their own town of Nazareth. The child grew and became strong, filled with
wisdom; and the favor of God was upon him.
Introductory
Prayer: Jesus, you were a small
child in your Mother’s arms. You were a baby who needed the protection of
Joseph. You felt their goodness and love. Today I want to celebrate this love
of your family. I want to enter into this love and bring it also to my own
family. I believe and trust that you will help me in this.
Petition: Lord, help me discover the wonders of the love of
the Holy Family.
1. The
Bridegroom Is with You: Our
God is a God of love. A family participates in this love because God is the
source of the love that draws them together. The love that is so spontaneous,
as well as so sacrificial, in a family shows the presence of Christ’s love.
Jesus makes this love spring forth. It is homage to his Father and homage to
his love for us. Am I aware of Christ’s loving presence in my family? Do I
strive to collaborate with his love?
2. Family
and Covenant: A family is fruit
of a covenant, and God is part of this covenant. God has always wanted to
make man part of his family, beginning with Adam and Eve. The Holy Family
demonstrates the definitive covenant of God’s love for each of us. They live
it with wonder and, like Abraham, they put their faith totally in God,
bonding themselves totally to his will and to his love. They play their parts
in the working of God’s plan, and God will keep his promise to them, making
them providential collaborators in his plan of salvation. We can be sure of
God’s faithful love in the family. We can be sure that he is working his plan
of salvation with faithfulness. Do I strive for unity in my family by living
supernatural charity?
3. Spiritual
Inheritance: The Holy Family is a
source of blessing. My family is also a source of blessing, even though
moments of sorrow are bound to happen. When I live with faith my role in the
family, I help to bring these blessings on the world. Often it is the example
of Christian families that attracts others to the faith. Often the most
powerful apostles, whether lay or consecrated persons, are fruit of the
strong faith that is lived in the family. A family should not be closed in on
itself; like the Holy Family, it has a mission. It must promote God’s message
in the world through example and action. Do I give example to the members of
my family? Do I strive to be an apostle both inside and outside the home?
Conversation with
Christ: Lord, thank you for
sanctifying family life by your presence. I want to discover you more in my
family and those around me. Help me to accompany my loved ones in their
moments of both joy and sorrow. You are with us, Lord. Help us to be your
apostles.
Resolution: I will take a moment to listen attentively to and speak with a member of my family who may not have received much attention from me recently. |
FEAST OF THE HOLY FAMILY OF JESUS, MARY, AND
JOSEPH
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 28, LUKE 2:22-40
(Sirach 3:2-7,12-14; Psalm 128; Colossians 3:12-21)
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 28, LUKE 2:22-40
(Sirach 3:2-7,12-14; Psalm 128; Colossians 3:12-21)
KEY VERSE: "They took him up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord" (v.22).
READING: As faithful Jews, Mary and Joseph brought the infant Jesus to the Temple for the rite of purification (Lv 12:2-8). Though this poor family could not afford a lamb for the sacrifice, they held the "lamb of God" in their arms. In the Temple that day were two elderly servants of God, Simeon and Anna, who awaited the deliverance of Israel. Simeon praised God for allowing him to see the one who would bring salvation to his people, and "light for revelation to the Gentiles" (Lk 2:32). Simeon's words to Mary pierced her heart; she would not be spared the suffering of her son. Luke paralleled the account of Simeon with that of Anna, a pious widow who spent her days in the Temple praying and fasting for the redemption of Israel. Anna is called a "prophetess," one who interpreted God's actions in the world. She gave thanks to God and told everyone that deliverance would come through this child. When they left the Temple, the holy family returned to Nazareth where their son Jesus grew in wisdom and grace.
REFLECTING: Do I tell others of the salvation offered by Jesus?
PRAYING: Lord Jesus, help me to wait patiently for the fulfillment of your promises to me.
Sunday 28 December 2014
Holy Family. W.
Genesis 15:1-6; 21:1-3. The Lord remembers his covenant for ever—Ps 104(105):1-6, 8-9. Hebrews 11:8, 11-12, 17-19. Luke 2:22-40.
Genesis 15:1-6; 21:1-3. The Lord remembers his covenant for ever—Ps 104(105):1-6, 8-9. Hebrews 11:8, 11-12, 17-19. Luke 2:22-40.
They took him to Jerusalem,
to present him to the Lord.
Closeness in family life is
the ideal put before us. But we should not lose heart when any family falls
short. In the very first family, Cain murdered his brother, Abel. Esau and
Jacob deluding the blind old father, the tactics of Rebecca and the problems of
polygamy in David’s family are also to be remembered.
In an age when broken
marriages, divorce and infidelity are common, it is important to ponder on the
fact that things are not meant to be like that, that they bring unhappiness,
especially for the children.
Jesus, Mary and Joseph, may
our families and family life be strengthened. We pray that the problems that
threaten family life here and around the world may, through your continued
grace, be overcome.
MINUTE MEDITATIONS
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Hearing God’s Word
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Oh Jesus, help me to know you a little bit more every day. Send me
your Holy Spirit so I can understand the meaning of the Gospels and meet you in
your Word, as I meet you in the Blessed Sacrament. I open my heart to all the
ways you want to speak to me.
December
28
Holy Innocents
Holy Innocents
Herod “the Great,” king of Judea, was unpopular with his people
because of his connections with the Romans and his religious indifference.
Hence he was insecure and fearful of any threat to his throne. He was a master
politician and a tyrant capable of extreme brutality. He killed his wife, his
brother and his sister’s two husbands, to name only a few.
Matthew
2:1-18 tells this story: Herod was “greatly troubled” when astrologers from the
east came asking the whereabouts of “the newborn king of the Jews,” whose star
they had seen. They were told that the Jewish Scriptures named Bethlehem as the
place where the Messiah would be born. Herod cunningly told them to report back
to him so that he could also “do him homage.” They found Jesus, offered him
their gifts and, warned by an angel, avoided Herod on their way home. Jesus
escaped to Egypt.
Herod
became furious and “ordered the massacre of all the boys in Bethlehem and its
vicinity two years old and under.” The horror of the massacre and the
devastation of the mothers and fathers led Matthew to quote Jeremiah: “A voice
was heard in Ramah, sobbing and loud lamentation; Rachel weeping for her
children...” (Matthew 2:18). Rachel was the wife of Jacob/Israel. She is
pictured as weeping at the place where the Israelites were herded together by
the conquering Assyrians for their march into captivity.
Comment:
The Holy Innocents are few, in comparison to the genocide and abortion of our day. But even if there had been only one, we recognize the greatest treasure God put on the earth—a human person, destined for eternity and graced by Jesus’ death and resurrection.
The Holy Innocents are few, in comparison to the genocide and abortion of our day. But even if there had been only one, we recognize the greatest treasure God put on the earth—a human person, destined for eternity and graced by Jesus’ death and resurrection.
Quote:
"Purify us as we
serve these, your mysteries, by which you grant justification even to those who
lack understanding" (Prayer Over the Gifts, Feast of the Holy Innocents).
Patron Saint of:
Babies
Babies
LECTIO DIVINA:
THE SACRED FAMILY (B)
Lectio:
Sunday, December 28, 2014
The one longed-for by all
The presentation of the Child in the Temple
Luke 2:22-40
The presentation of the Child in the Temple
Luke 2:22-40
1. Opening prayer
O God, our Creator and Father, you willed that your Son, generated before the dawn of the world, should become a member of the human family. Rekindle in us an appreciation for the gift of life, so that parents may participate in the fruitfulness of your love, old people may pass on to young ones their mature wisdom, and children may grow in wisdom, piety and grace, all giving praise to your holy name. Through Christ our Lord.
O God, our Creator and Father, you willed that your Son, generated before the dawn of the world, should become a member of the human family. Rekindle in us an appreciation for the gift of life, so that parents may participate in the fruitfulness of your love, old people may pass on to young ones their mature wisdom, and children may grow in wisdom, piety and grace, all giving praise to your holy name. Through Christ our Lord.
2. Reading: Luke 2:22-40
22 When the time came for their purification according to the
law of Moses, they brought him up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord 23
(as it is written in the law of the Lord, "Every male that opens the womb
shall be called holy to the Lord") 24 and to offer a sacrifice according
to what is said in the law of the Lord, "a pair of turtledoves, or two
young pigeons."
25 Now there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon, and this man was righteous and devout, looking for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. 26 And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he should not see death before he had seen the Lord's Christ. 27 And inspired by the Spirit he came into the temple; and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him according to the custom of the law, 28 he took him up in his arms and blessed God and said, 29 "Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word; 30 for mine eyes have seen thy salvation 31 which thou hast prepared in the presence of all peoples, 32 a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and for glory to thy people Israel."
33 And his father and his mother marveled at what was said about him; 34 and Simeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother, "Behold, this child is set for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign that is spoken against 35 (and a sword will pierce through your own soul also), that thoughts out of many hearts may be revealed."
36 And there was a prophetess, Anna, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher; she was of a great age, having lived with her husband seven years from her virginity, 37 and as a widow till she was eighty-four. She did not depart from the temple, worshiping with fasting and prayer night and day. 38 And coming up at that very hour she gave thanks to God, and spoke of him to all who were looking for the redemption of Jerusalem.
39 And when they had performed everything according to the law of the Lord, they returned into Galilee, to their own city, Nazareth. 40 And the child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom; and the favour of God was upon him.
25 Now there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon, and this man was righteous and devout, looking for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. 26 And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he should not see death before he had seen the Lord's Christ. 27 And inspired by the Spirit he came into the temple; and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him according to the custom of the law, 28 he took him up in his arms and blessed God and said, 29 "Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word; 30 for mine eyes have seen thy salvation 31 which thou hast prepared in the presence of all peoples, 32 a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and for glory to thy people Israel."
33 And his father and his mother marveled at what was said about him; 34 and Simeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother, "Behold, this child is set for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign that is spoken against 35 (and a sword will pierce through your own soul also), that thoughts out of many hearts may be revealed."
36 And there was a prophetess, Anna, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher; she was of a great age, having lived with her husband seven years from her virginity, 37 and as a widow till she was eighty-four. She did not depart from the temple, worshiping with fasting and prayer night and day. 38 And coming up at that very hour she gave thanks to God, and spoke of him to all who were looking for the redemption of Jerusalem.
39 And when they had performed everything according to the law of the Lord, they returned into Galilee, to their own city, Nazareth. 40 And the child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom; and the favour of God was upon him.
3. A moment of prayerful silence
- that the Word of God may dwell in us and that we may allow it
to enlighten our lives;
- that before we pass any comments, the very light of the Word may shine and dominate with the mystery of the living presence of the Lord.
- that before we pass any comments, the very light of the Word may shine and dominate with the mystery of the living presence of the Lord.
4. Some questions
to help us in our personal reflection.
a) Why should Jesus, Son of the Most High, and his mother Mary,
conceived without sin, obey the prescriptions of Moses? Maybe because Mary was
not yet aware of her innocence and holiness?
b) Is there special significance in the words and attitudes of Simeon and the prophetess Anna? Do not their actions and joy perhaps recall the style of the ancient prophets?
c) How can we explain this "sword" that pierces: is it a rending of the consciences before the challenges and richness of Jesus? Or is it only the inner pains of the Mother?
d) Can this scene mean anything to parents today: for the religious formation of their children; for the plan that God has for each of their children; for the fears and sufferings that parents carry in their hearts when they think of the time when their children grow up?
b) Is there special significance in the words and attitudes of Simeon and the prophetess Anna? Do not their actions and joy perhaps recall the style of the ancient prophets?
c) How can we explain this "sword" that pierces: is it a rending of the consciences before the challenges and richness of Jesus? Or is it only the inner pains of the Mother?
d) Can this scene mean anything to parents today: for the religious formation of their children; for the plan that God has for each of their children; for the fears and sufferings that parents carry in their hearts when they think of the time when their children grow up?
5. A key to the reading
for those who wish go deeper into the text.
a) As laid down in the law of Moses/of the Lord. This
is a kind of refrain repeated several times. Luke mixes two prescriptions
without making any distinction. The purification of the mother was foreseen in Leviticus (12:2-8)
and was to take place forty days after the birth. Until then, the woman could
not approach sacred places, and the ceremony was accompanied by the gift of a
small animal. But the consecration of the first-born was prescribed in Exodus
13:11-16, and was considered a kind of "ransom" in memory of the
saving action of God when he liberated the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. For
this also the offering was a small animal. In all of this scene, the parents
seem to be in the process of presenting/offering their son as was done with
sacrifices and Levites, while through the persons of Simeon and Anna it seems
rather God who offers/presents the son for the salvation of people.
b) Simeon and Anna: these are figures full of
symbolical value. Their role is one ofrecognition, that comes from both
the enlightenment and action of the Spirit and a life lived in expectation and
faith. Simeon especially is defined as prodekòmenos,
that is, one entirely absorbed in waiting, and one who goes forward to welcome.
He, too, appears to be obedient to the law, the law of the Spirit, who leads
him towards the child in the temple. The canticle he proclaims manifests his pro-existentia,
he has lived in order to come to this moment and now he withdraws so that
others may see the light and the salvation to come for Israel and the pagans.Anna completes
the picture, by her very age (symbolical value: 84 equals 7x12, the twelve
tribes of Israel; or 84 – 7 = 77, double perfection), but above all by her way
of living (fasting and praying) and by her proclamation to all who "looked
forward". She is led by the Spirit of prophecy, docile and purified in her
heart. Besides, she belongs to the smallest of the tribes, that of Aser, a sign
that the small and fragile are those more disposed to recognise Jesus, the
Saviour. Both of these old persons – who look like an original couple – are
symbols of the best of Judaism, of faithful and meek Jerusalem, that awaits and
rejoices and that from now on allows the new light to shine.
c) A sword will pierce: generally these words
are interpreted as meaning that Mary will suffer, a drama made visible of the
Our Lady of Sorrows. Rather, we need to see the Mother as a symbol of Israel.
Simeon feels the drama of his people who will be deeply torn by the living and
sharp word of the redeemer (cf Lk 12:51-53). Mary represents the path: she must
trust, but will go through times of pain and darkness, struggles and painful
silences. The story of the suffering Messiah will be painful for all, even for
the Mother. One does not follow the new light of the whole world without paying
the cost, without being provoked to make risky choices, without being always
born again from on high and in newness. But these images of the "sword
that pierces", of the child who will "trip" and shake hearts
from their lethargy, are not to be separated from the meaningful action of the
two old persons: the one, Simeon, takes the child in his arms to show that
faith is a meeting and an embrace, not an idea of theorem; the other, Anna,
takes on the role of proclaiming and enkindles a bright light in the hearts of
all who "looked forward" to him.
d) Daily life, an epiphany of God: finally, it
is interesting to note that the whole episode emphasises the situation of the
most simple and homely: the young couple with the child in their arms; the old
man who rejoices and embraces, the old lady who prays and proclaims, those
listening who appear to be indirectly involved. At the end of the passage, we
also get a glimpse of the village of Nazareth, of the growth of the child in a
normal context, the impression of a child extraordinarily gifted with wisdom
and goodness. The theme of wisdom woven into the fabric of normal life and
growth in a village context, leaves the story as if in suspense, and it will be
taken up again precisely with the theme of the wisdom of the boy among the
doctors in the temple. Indeed, this is the episode that follows immediately (Lk
2:41-52).
6. Psalm 122
I was glad when they said to me,
"Let us go to the house of the Lord!"
Our feet have been standing within your gates,
O Jerusalem!
Jerusalem, built as a city which is bound firmly together,
to which the tribes go up, the tribes of the Lord,
as was decreed for Israel,
to give thanks to the name of the Lord.
There thrones for judgment were set,
the thrones of the house of David.
Pray for the peace of Jerusalem!
"May they prosper who love you!
Peace be within your walls,
and security within your towers!"
For my brethren and companions' sake I will say,
"Peace be within you!"
For the sake of the house of the Lord our God,
I will seek your good.
"Let us go to the house of the Lord!"
Our feet have been standing within your gates,
O Jerusalem!
Jerusalem, built as a city which is bound firmly together,
to which the tribes go up, the tribes of the Lord,
as was decreed for Israel,
to give thanks to the name of the Lord.
There thrones for judgment were set,
the thrones of the house of David.
Pray for the peace of Jerusalem!
"May they prosper who love you!
Peace be within your walls,
and security within your towers!"
For my brethren and companions' sake I will say,
"Peace be within you!"
For the sake of the house of the Lord our God,
I will seek your good.
7. Final Prayer
Father, we praise you and we bless you because through your Son,
born of woman by the working of the Holy Spirit, born under the law, has
ransomed us from the law and you have filled our life with light and new hope.
May our families welcome and remain faithful to your designs, may they help and
sustain in their children the new dreams and enthusiasm, wrap them in
tenderness when they are fragile, educate them in love for you and for all
creatures. All honour and glory to you, Father.
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