Views From The Pews – Fourth Sunday After The Epiphany – Sunday, February 2, 2025

Dear People of God

Falling forty days after Christmas, today’s celebration continues the Christmas story with a reading from the Gospel of Luke. Mary and Joseph faithfully fulfill the prescriptions of the Law of Moses by presenting their firstborn son at the Temple and offering two young pigeons, the sacrifice required of those who cannot afford the more costly turtledoves (see Lk 2:24).

While most people at the Temple see just another poor family fulfilling their religious obligations, Simeon and Anna recognize the One for whom the world has been waiting. Rejoicing in the fulfillment of God’s ancient promises, Simeon proclaims that this child is the “salvation which you have prepared in the presence of all peoples” (Lk 2:30).

This newborn child’s first visit to the Temple foreshadows the profound connection he will have with this sacred place throughout his life. Later, he will refer to it as his “Father’s house” (Lk 2:49) and return there during his ministry to challenge corrupt religious leaders. At the moment of his death, Luke recounts that “the curtain of the temple was torn in two” (Lk 23:45), symbolizing the opening of access to God for all people, Jew and Gentile alike.

As we reflect on this story, we are invited once again into the joy of Christmas. The light that has come into the world is present among us as we gather for worship.

We are called to carry the light of Christ beyond our places of worship. This light is meant to illumine the world, bringing good news to the poor, release to those who are bound, and God’s favor to those who dwell in darkness and fear.

Contributed

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