The Presentation of the Child Jesus in the temple.

Malachi 3:1-4; Hebrews 2:14-18; Luke 2:22-40

The Feast of the Presentation of the Lord is a moment of great significance in the life of Jesus and the history of our salvation. It is a day of light, a day of revelation, and a day of fulfilment.

The Gospel tells us that Mary and Joseph brought Jesus to the temple to present Him to the Lord, in accordance with the Law of Moses. This act of obedience shows us that Jesus, the Son of God, entered fully into our human condition. Though He Himself was the Lord of the Law, He submitted to it. This moment is not only about Jesus being presented, but about God revealing His salvation to the world.

The prophet Malachi foretold this day, saying, “And suddenly there will come to the temple the Lord whom you seek” (Mal 3:1). Here we see the fulfilment of that prophecy - Jesus, the true Light of the world, comes into the temple, the dwelling place of God, to be recognized by those who awaited Him.

Two figures stand out in this Gospel account - Simeon and Anna. These were people of deep faith, who spent their lives waiting and longing for the Messiah. Simeon, guided by the Holy Spirit, took Jesus in his arms and proclaimed:

"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 the sight of all the peoples:
a light for revelation to the Gentiles,
and glory for your people Israel." (Luke 2:29-32)

I find this moment so touching. Simeon, an old man nearing the end of his days, finds his life’s fulfilment in holding the Saviour. He had been waiting, trusting in God’s promise, and now, in this tiny Child, he sees the salvation of the world.

Anna, the prophetess, also gives thanks and speaks of Jesus to all who were waiting for redemption. She had lived in the temple for years, in prayer and fasting, preparing her heart to recognize the Messiah. I look upon her meeting our Saviour as God rewarding her for her faithfulness.

These two faithful souls remind us that God always fulfils His promises. Their example invites us to be patient and watchful, trusting in God’s plan, even when it seems delayed.

This feast is also called Candlemas because of the tradition of blessing candles, a symbol of Christ, the Light of the world. Simeon’s words remind us that Jesus is not just the glory of Israel but a light for all nations. In a world darkened by sin, suffering, and confusion, Christ comes to enlighten us, to show us the way to the Father.

But there is also a challenge here. Simeon tells Mary: “This child is destined for the fall and rise of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be contradicted” (Luke 2:34). Jesus’ mission will not be easy. The light will shine, but many will reject it. His path leads to the cross, and Mary, His mother, will share in His suffering.

This reminds us that being disciples of Christ is not about comfort, but about carrying our own crosses. If we follow Jesus, we too will face opposition and trials. But like Mary and Joseph, we must trust in God’s plan.
When Simeon, inspired by the Holy Spirit, turned to Mary and told her, "And a sword will pierce your own soul too" (Luke 2:35), Mary likely received these words with silent, interior sorrow. She had already shown in the Annunciation (Luke 1:38) and the events following Christ’s birth that she was a woman of faith and deep reflection. Luke 2:19 tells us that "Mary kept all these things, pondering them in her heart," and it is likely that she did the same with Simeon's words.

Mary did not fully understand at that moment how the prophecy would be fulfilled, she accepted it in faith, as she did everything related to her Son's mission. The true weight of Simeon's prophecy would become evident at the foot of the Cross, where she witnessed her Son's suffering and death - fulfilling the sorrow that had been foretold.
What does this feast mean for us today?

Like Mary and Joseph, we must offer everything to God. They brought Jesus to the temple to dedicate Him to the Lord. We too must present our lives to God daily, surrendering our worries, hopes, and plans to His will.
Like Simeon and Anna, we must be people of faith and perseverance. They waited for the Lord with trust and prayer. In our own lives, we must learn to wait on God, knowing that He never abandons His people.
Like Jesus, we are called to be light in the world. Our faith should shine in our words and actions. In a time of spiritual darkness, let us bring Christ’s light to others through love, kindness, and truth.

Lord Jesus, as Mary and Joseph presented You in the temple, help us to present our lives fully to God our Father. And may You, the Light of the nations, guide us always in Your truth and love.

https://fatherfrancismaple.co.uk