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Saturday, February 2, 2008, Presentation of the Lord
Malachi 3:1-4, Hebrews 2:14-18, Psalm 24, Luke 2:22-40
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/020208.shtml
PERSEVERANCE AND THE PRESENTATION SPIRIT
"He came to the temple now, inspired by the Spirit." —Luke 2:27
"The Holy Spirit was upon" Simeon (Lk 2:25). He had long awaited the
consolation of Israel and the coming of the Messiah (Lk 2:25-26). The Holy
Spirit had even revealed to Simeon that he would personally see the Christ
before he died (Lk 2:26).
The Holy Spirit also was upon Anna. Though Luke's Gospel doesn't
explicitly link Anna and the Spirit, it calls her a prophetess (Lk 2:36).
She used the Spirit's gift of prophecy. The Spirit also inspired Anna to
constantly fast, pray, and worship (Lk 2:37).
Unlike many Israelites before them, Anna and Simeon persevered in
readiness. They were instantly ready to act when Jesus appeared (see Mal
3:2). Many other Israelites weren't ready for the Messiah, failed to
recognize Him, and so rejected Him.
Why did Simeon and Anna recognize Jesus when others couldn't?
* When Jesus came, they readily spoke of Him. Since people speak from
the abundance of their hearts, this shows their hearts were always filled
with God (Lk 6:45).
* They wouldn't allow a long wait to dim their hope in the Lord. Their
suffering and personal holiness led to constant, vigilant, living hope (Rm
5:3-5).
* Though the Holy Spirit hadn't been poured out, they were mysteriously
"inspired by the Spirit" (Lk 2:27). They yielded to the Spirit rather than
ignoring Him.
"Receive the Holy Spirit" (Jn 20:22). Stay present to Jesus (Mk 14:37). Be
ready for Jesus like Simeon and Anna.
Prayer: Jesus, may I live in the present (Mt 6:34), and present myself
daily to You. Each day I will wait for You in joyful hope.
Promise: "He is able to help those who are tempted." —Heb 2:18
Praise: Praise Jesus, God Incarnate, Who was made subject to the law for
our sakes.
(This teaching was submitted by a member of our editorial team.)
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Rescript: In accord with the "Code of Canon Law", I hereby grant my
permission to publish "One Bread, One Body" covering the period from
February 1, 2008 through March 31, 2008
†Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Vicar General Archdiocese of Cincinnati,
August 14, 2007
The rescript is a declaration that a book or pamphlet is considered to be
free of doctrinal or moral error. It is not implied that those who have
granted ecclesial permission agree with the contents, opinions, or
statements expressed.
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