12/31/2023 (Sunday) Today’s gospel reading: Luke 2:22-40

22 After the days of her purification were fulfilled, according to the law of Moses, they brought him to Jerusalem, in order to present him to the Lord,
23 just as it is written in the law of the Lord, “For every male opening the womb shall be called holy to the Lord,”
24 and in order to offer a sacrifice, according to what is said in the law of the Lord, “a pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons.”
25 And behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon, and this man was just and God-fearing, awaiting the consolation of Israel. And the Holy Spirit was with him.
26 And he had received an answer from the Holy Spirit: that he would not see his own death before he had seen the Christ of the Lord.
27 And he went with the Spirit to the temple. And when the child Jesus was brought in by his parents, in order to act on his behalf according to the custom of the law,
28 he also took him up, into his arms, and he blessed God and said:
29 “Now you may dismiss your servant in peace, O Lord, according to your word.
30 For my eyes have seen your salvation,
31 which you have prepared before the face of all peoples:
32 A light to the revelation of the Gentiles, and the glory of your people Israel.
33 And his father and mother were wondering over these things, which were spoken about him.
34 And Simeon blessed them, and he said to his mother Mary: “Behold, this one has been set for the ruin and for the resurrection of many in Israel, and as a sign which will be contradicted.
35 And a sword will pass through your own soul, so that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”
36 And there was one Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher; she was far advanced in years, and had lived with her husband seven years from her virginity.
37 And she was a widow until she was eighty-four years. She never left the temple, but worshiped night and day with fasting and prayer.
38 Now she, at the same hour, coming in, confessed to the Lord; and spoke of him to all that looked for the redemption of Israel.
39 And after they had performed all things according to the law of the Lord, they returned into Galilee, to their city Nazareth.
40 The child grew and became strong, full of wisdom; and the grace of God was in him.

12/31/2023 (Sunday) Today’s gospel reflection / sermon / homily: Luke 2:22-40

The gospel passage gives us the story of the presentation of Jesus in the temple, an event rich with symbolism and prophetic significance. It invites us to reflect on the themes of faithfulness, discernment, trust, and maturity.

The text begins with Joseph and Mary fulfilling their religious obligations by presenting Jesus at the temple, offering a sacrifice, and undergoing purification rituals. This act underscores the importance of obedience to God’s law, even for His own Son. It also connects Jesus to the lineage of Israel, fulfilling ancient prophecies.

The encounter with Simeon, a righteous and devout man guided by the Holy Spirit, adds another layer of meaning. His prophecy describes Jesus as a light for revelation, a cause of division, and a source of both salvation and sorrow. This foreshadows Jesus’ dual role as Messiah and bringer of conflict, as well as the challenges and complexities of faith throughout history. Then there’s the old prophetess Anna who praised God upon recognizing Jesus as the promised Redeemer. May we be like Simeon and Anna. Through fasting and prayer, may we praise and thank God because, in faith, we have seen our salvation through His son Jesus Christ.

Moreover, Simeon and Anna provide us with insight into the nature of trust. Simeon’s willingness to embrace the Holy Spirit’s message, despite its unsettling nature, exemplifies unwavering trust in God’s wisdom. He doesn’t shy away from the prophecy’s challenging aspects, but instead accepts them with faith, knowing that God’s plans ultimately work for good. On the other hand, Anna’s patience while waiting for the Messiah’s arrival reminds us that God always keeps His promises, even if it takes time and patience on our part.

Finally, the gospel reading concludes with a brief note on Jesus’ growth in wisdom and favor with God. This simple statement suggests that even Jesus, the Son of God, experienced a process of growth and learning. This can be a comforting reminder that trusting God’s process is essential, even when we don’t see immediate results. Therefore, let us seek to continually learn and grow in our understanding of God.

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