The presentation of the Lord

     We celebrate the presentation of the Lord tomorrow on February 2nd and the accounts of this beautiful Holy day by Saint Ann Catherine Emmerich is quite wonderful. This event occurred 40 days after Christmas, connecting the Old testament with the New testament. She witnessed the temple trees bowing, the Trinity present and the symbolic reunion of humanity to God through the offering of Mary to a priestly Angel upon the altar. Ann Catherine saw a shining ball with a child inside, which represented this offering. People brought lights that merged with the child's radiance, symbolizing Jesus as the Light of the world. The "Tree of Knowledge" seemed to wither at the appearance of Mary and child, signifying the destruction of the curse. 

      The act of presenting Jesus in the temple is equal to His "consecration" as an act of Thanksgiving for the gift received from the hands of the Creator, the source of all life. 

     When we baptize our sweet babies, or an adult is presented into the Church as a Catholic, we are recalling that wonderful ritual that took place on the day of the baby Jesus being presented in the temple to the priest "Simeon". Along to follow shortly, the next step which is actual Baptism. We consecrate and lift that Holy creation, spotless, as a child of God. We imitate Mary and Joseph in unity to God in Thanksgiving and Joy for the great gift God has given to us. 

     Jesus is like us in all ways except for sin. He is our great symbol of the love God has for all human beings and we recall to mind of this great gift for all generations to come. The presentation of Jesus in the temple is no ordinary day. It is the day when the light of the world was to be recognized as just that. 

     We had sat in darkness until this great light illuminated salvation for all. We give God Honor and Glory forever for loving us so much to send His only Son, and will forever be in His debt for it. 

     Thank you oh God! For loving us so much.