Feast of the Presentation of the Lord
(Malachi 3:1-4; Hebrews 2:14-18; Luke 2:22-32)
There is something attractive and calming about a single lighted
candle. We never want to put it out; rather
our instinct is to multiply it a hundred times.
It seems quite gentle as if it can cause no pain. But if we come close, it will burn with the
ferocity of a laser. For these reasons
Simeon in today’s gospel makes a fitting comparison of Jesus to a light for the
world.
Jesus’ light brings comfort.
He assures us that following his ways will lead to lasting rest and peace.
Yet the same practices will burn away our
harmful fat. They will free us from our
need of praise, our desire for riches, and our compulsion for sex. Jesus fills us with a love for others that we
will work to have them join us in giving him praise and thanks.
At first sight the reading from the prophet Malachi seems
out of place. If Jesus is the messenger
who comes into the temple, how can he be compared to a “refiner’s blazing fire”? it is true that the fire of Jesus’ love is
not a blast that destroys. Nevertheless,
it is strong enough to transform us into caring human beings like Jesus
himself.
