Sunday 2 February

The Presentation of the Lord (F)

Malachi 3:1-4; Psalm 24:7-10; Hebrews 2:14-18; Luke 2:22-40

Way of the cross!

Simeon is ecstatic at meeting Jesus, but warns he is to become a “sign of contradiction” and tells Mary “a sword will pierce your own soul”. The joy of recognising Christ opens you to the cross. The peace Jesus brings cannot be received apart from the cross.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, you became one of us, making it possible for us to know God through you. Your witness took shape in Simeon’s arms. You would stretch out your own arms to embrace the world. Open my eyes to recognise you and my heart to embrace your way.