Gospel of Luke 2:22-35The 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.”
Mary walks up the temple steps holding the Christ child in her arms. Alongside his wife, Joseph carries the pair of pigeons, a gift of homage for the ceremonial blessing that will soon take place.
Simeon and Anna, through the Holy Spirit, discover this tiny little infant is the chosen one from God. Decades spent blessing young children according to Jewish custom; years spent watching, waiting for the Holy Child of God. Here he finally appears in front of them! Simeon holds the Christ child, so innocent and pure. How glorious! How wonderful! A child destined for the rise and fall of many in Israel found his way into the world. How will such a precious child hold so much hope for the people? What will he do for the salvation of others? Will Mary later understand Simeon's prophesy - "you yourself a sword will pierce?"
Simeon and Anna, through the Holy Spirit, discover this tiny little infant is the chosen one from God. Decades spent blessing young children according to Jewish custom; years spent watching, waiting for the Holy Child of God. Here he finally appears in front of them! Simeon holds the Christ child, so innocent and pure. How glorious! How wonderful! A child destined for the rise and fall of many in Israel found his way into the world. How will such a precious child hold so much hope for the people? What will he do for the salvation of others? Will Mary later understand Simeon's prophesy - "you yourself a sword will pierce?"
This famous scripture passage that we pray during the recitation of the Joyous Mysterious of the Holy Rosary shows the importance of obedience and tradition. Mary and Joseph could have declined the blessing in the temple. Jesus is the Son of God. Why would he need a blessing from an old priest? The blessing is for the entire family, surrounded by ancient tradition. Such tradition guaranteed that the Lord would look after, watch and protect the family.
In modern day, we ask a priest to bless our homes or a prized piece of jewelry. Our entire Christian faith involves the blessings God bestows on us every day. What if we ignored those blessings?
I am sure Mary and Joseph felt a little uneasy about their son being a sign of contradiction. Nobody wants to hear their child will cause trouble. Yet, through obedience the Holy Family accepted God's Will. Whatever happens will happen; whatever is meant to be will be accepted with faith and humility.
-J..
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