Friday 2 February

FEAST OF THE PRESENTATION OF THE LORD

Malachi 3:1-4; Psalm 24; Hebrews 2:14-18; Luke 2:22-32

Jesus: light and judge

In our gospel reading, the child Jesus enters the Temple in Jerusalem. Simeon recognises Jesus as the one whose promised coming was alluded to by the prophet Malachi. Simeon beholds the child who will save Israel and the nations; this child will be refiner and purifier – the light and judge over humankind, causing the rise and fall of many.

We are temples of God’s Holy Spirit. Jesus the Christ has entered us and his light and judgement pervade our being, refining and purifying our lives. Our salvation will depend on our response to his light and judgement.