By PIETRO BERNARDINO S. ALBANO

FOURTH SORROW AND JOY

The Presentation of the Child Jesus in the temple

(Luke 2, 22-23; 25; 28; 33-35. Today’s English Version – Second Edition ©1992)




The time came for Joseph and Mary to perform the ceremony of purification, as the law of Moses commanded. So they took the child to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord, as it was written in the law of the Lord: “Every first-born male is to be dedicated to the Lord.”

At that time there was a man named Simeon living in Jerusalem. Simeon took the child in his arms and gave thanks to God. The child’s father and mother were amazed at the things Simeon said about him. Simeon blessed them and said to Mary, his mother, “This child is chosen by God for the destruction and the salvation of many in Israel. He will be a sign from God which many people will speak against and so reveal their secret thoughts. And sorrow, like a sharp sword, will break your heart.”


Silent Reflection

Prayer


Dear St Joseph, you are the head of an obedient family. You have brought your family to the Temple in observance of the law. The Child Jesus, being your first-born, was offered to the Lord. It was a pre-figuration of his self-offering for the glory of the Father. Simeon foretold a bleak future for Jesus and Mary as a price for the redemption of men. You were one with Mary in experiencing pain, knowing what would become of this helpless infant. Yet you were convinced that your family’s suffering would be used by the Almighty to reconcile Himself with His people.

We tend to be pessimistic of what will happen to the world, to the Church, to our family, to our very own life. Guide us to keep our hopes up in God’s plan no matter how uncertain it may be for now. May we obey His will, filled with happiness in our hearts till we meet Him face-to-face.

We remember in our prayers all newly baptized babies and adults and those preparing for baptism, that like you they may value the gift of faith and consistently profess it throughout life. Lastly, we also remember our particular intentions…Amen

1 Our Father, 1 Hail Mary, and 1 Glory Be