Presentation of the Lord - February 2, 2025
Promises are meant to be kept. A promise not kept reveals a weak character, and unreliable person. But a promise delayed is not broken; it's simply unfulfilled. Then, at the right time, its fulfillment creates awe. Such was the appearance of the Christ, even as a small child.
FIRST READING The prophet Malachi predicted a messenger of reform. One who would cleanse the Temple of its corrupt practices and lead the people into repentance. One who had the power or God.
PSALM Psalm 24 was a processional hymn. The faithful would cleanse themselves, then ascend to the place of worship, singing a song like Psalm 24. They would cry out words of praise on their way to adore their God.
SECOND READING In Luke's gospel, the prophets Simeon and Anna received the child Jesus into their arms. They praised God for his gift to them and all of Israel.
GOSPEL In Luke 4, Jesus taught in the synagogue at Nazareth. His message was simple. He was the fulfillment of Isaiah's servant prophecy. He was the Messiah.
DAILY READINGS for Third Week in Ordinary Time.
CHILDREN'S READINGS In the first reading, the ambitious Chelsea joined the undefeated Yankees softball team. But she wanted more. She wanted to pitch. Her coach gave her that chance. To dig her team out of a hole. To win a game. Her trial under pressure reflects our trials and our chance to grow from our tough times. In the gospel, lazy Brandon finally obeyed his mother and cleaned his closet. Half way through the task, he found a broken Christmas present. But, instead of tossing it away, he placed it on the shelf with his other awards. All because of the gift-giver, his uncle who worked so hard to earn the money for the gift. While Christmas seems like a distant memory, let's remember the greatest gift God ever gave us, Jesus.
FAMILY ACTIVITY Remember Christmas just a little longer with a Presentation Prayer Box.