Presentation of the Lord
With a humble heart, I have to admit that I totally missed that today was the feast day of the Presentation of the Lord rather than the 4th Sunday in Ordinary Time. Please accept my apology for that.
In the reading, the prophel Malachi tells us of a messenger who will prepare the way. Christian tradition has seen John the Baptist and Jesus in this prophecy.
In the gospel, Mary and Joseph present Jesus in the temple. In the temple, Jesus is recognized by both Simeon and Anna as the fulfillment of God's promise.
Simeon said that some will accept Jesus and be saved and others will reject him. Jesus is the Light and Saviour of the world.
4th Sunday in Ordinary Time Reading and Gospel (these were discussed rather than the appropreate reading and gospel as above):
In our reading, we heard that God loves those who are poor and humble. The poor and humble know that God is important, loving, and peaceful. They find their happiness by trusting in God.
In our gospel, we heard the Beatitudes.
“Blessed are people who know they need God, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to them.
Blessed are people who are sad now, for later, God will comfort them.
Blessed are people who are humble, for God will give them everything.
Blessed are people who work for justice, for God will give them all they need.
Blessed are people who show mercy to others, for God will have mercy on them.
Blessed are people who have hearts that are pure, for they will see God.
Blessed are people who make peace, for they will be called children of God.
Blessed are people who suffer for doing what is right, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to them.
And you are blessed when people hurt you and say bad things about you because you believe in me.
Be happy and glad, for God will reward you in heaven.”