By Kulandai Albert csc –
Readings: 1 Jn 2:3-11; Lk 2:22-35
In the first reading, St. John speaks of the commandments of Jesus and how his followers lived in faith and the love of God. He says that the words of Christians are justified through their actions. Therefore, he elaborates on the spirit of the commandments of Jesus. He is also giving an example of living in the light and living in the darkness. The gospel reading is about the presentation of Jesus in the temple.
In the narration, Simeon witnesses Christ, the saviour and proclaims his faith in saviour is to come. Here, Jesus’ parents, Mary and Joseph are faithful to the commandments of God. They showed their love and trust in God by fulfilling the custom of the law. Both readings of the day invite us to watch over our words and actions.
Many times, as Christians we are proud and exalt ourselves before others. Today Jesus is inviting us to watch over our words and actions.
St. John, the apostle, warns us to keep the commandments of Jesus and proclaim that we are followers of Jesus. The best example we find in the gospel is of Mary and Joseph, who found favour in the sight of God.
Another insight from the reading is waiting for the appropriate or the right time by placing our hope and trust in God. In the case of Simeon, it was true that he hoped in God and waited for the favourable response through prayers. Therefore, as we are in the Christmas Octave, let us watch our words and actions as Christians, and persevere in our hope in God who never abandons us.