Jesus is presented in the Temple Luke 2:21-35
Imaginative Contemplation
After eight days, it was time to circumcise the child, and he was called Jesus, the name given him by the angel. Simeon, a righteous and devout man, was looking forward to the coming of the Messiah. The Holy Spirit was with him and Simeon knew that he would see the Messiah before he died.
He was in the Temple when Mary and Joseph arrived with the child Jesus and began the ritual offering of two young pigeons. Simeon took the child in his arms and blessed God, saying
‘Now, Master, you can let your servant go in peace, just as you promised; because my eyes have seen the salvation which you have prepared for all the nations to see, a light to enlighten the pagans and the glory of your people Israel.’ And the child’s father and mother were amazed at what was being said about him. Then Simeon blessed them and said to his mother Mary, ‘This child is destined for the falling and the rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be opposed so that the inner thoughts of many will be revealed – and a sword will pierce your own soul too.’
Enter into the scene
I was in the temple that day, welcoming those bringing their children for the offering, finding the right place where people could buy the sacrificial offerings and helping them with the rituals. This young couple came in carrying the most delightful little baby. Even though so young, he had a big smile on his face and he seemed really excited. Howe could that be for a child so young?
Well, the priests were there ready to conduct the ceremonies. There were a lot of people with their babies and I was kept busy helping them to find their way around. It seemed like any other day… except for that little family with the smiling baby.
The Temple is a busy place, so I was not surprised to see Simeon among the crowds. Anna was also there, that lovely elder who is quite a prophetess.
Simeon called me over. “Rachel, that little family oiver there is very special. Stay with me today and you will experience many surprises!”
Joseph and Mary had just made their sacrifice and were looking for some refreshments before setting out for home. Simeon went to meet them and the world seemed to stand still. There seemed to be an aura around them, not seen at the time of the sacrifice, but now as holy people met holy people. Mary handed the child to Simeon who was ecstatic! I came closer and saw the baby snuggle into Simeon’s arms. With tears running down his cheeks, Simeon praised God and foretold the future blessings that this child would bring not just to us, the Jews, but to the whole world, people of every tribe and nation. My heart was thumping. How blest I was to be here this morning!
Then Simeon spoke of hard times ahead, of rejection and suffering. And as if this wasn’t enough to spoil the whole thing, he turned to the mother and foretold great suffering. The woman’s face clouded over, then showed panic, and then, to my amazement, she bowed her head as if to say, ‘OK, God! Your will be done.’
The family moved towards the exit, and Simeon turned and walked back into the Temple, rubbing his hands in excitement.
I have thought back over this day many times, reliving the excitement and sense of God’s presence.
May Simeon’s words come to fruition.
For further reflection
Discuss with Jesus the following points:
· Jesus was circumcised according to Jewish Law. Mary and Joseph did not consider themselves outside or above the Law.
· What was it about Simeon that made people recognise him as a good and righteous man?
· Do you know a good man or woman? How would you describe that person?
· Simeon was in the Temple at the right time. Have you ever felt a need to be somewhere, do something, contact someone? What happened when you followed the prompting?
· How can you best hear and respond to these promptings of the Holy Spirit?
· Mary and Joseph allowed Simeon to hold the Child. If I had been in their position, would I have allowed this? Why? Why not?
· Simeon makes public his prayer of gratitude to God. He shared his vision for the future. Do I have opportunities to pray in gratitude with other people?
· Simeon went on to describe the hard times ahead, and the anguish which Mary was to suffer. Sometimes we have to face an uncertain and difficult future. Am I ready to trust God and move into an unknown future?
Prayer
Lord, grant me the courage to hear what you are saying to me deep in my heart. Help me to accept the difficult things in my life as well as the happy moments. I know that you are with me always. Thank you. Amen.