Lighting Up the World – Feast of the Presentation of Jesus
Today marks the first day of Novena in honor of Our Lady of Lourdes. On February 11, we shall celebrate our 63rd Patronal Fiesta recalling the first apparition of Mary to the 14-year-old Bernadette Soubirous in 1858 at Lourdes, France. One of the many activities lined-up for the Fiesta is the Mass Wedding of 22 Couples. As they were prepared spiritually through seminars, the sacraments of confirmation and confession, I reminded them that when they were living together without the sacrament of marriage for years, they were like candles without flame. They were not giving light as they ought to be because our Christian vocation as Jesus said is to be “light of the world.” But now that they are again in the state of grace, Christ is re-kindling their fire. They are glowing once again like lamps on a lampstand.
We celebrate also today the Feast of the Presentation of Jesus in the Temple of Jerusalem by Mary and Joseph. Theirs was an act of thanksgiving for the gift of life; most especially for the gift of Jesus. Moreover, they were stunned by the revelation made by the old Simeon and the aging prophetess Anna. Simeon announced his gratitude that he has finally “seen salvation” because Jesus will be a “light and glory” for Israel. Anna also, led by the Spirit, recognize the future redeeming vocation of the child. Joseph and Mary never expected such epiphany to happen. Every child brought forth into this world has an amazing future waiting to happen. Every life is a gift; every child brings a particular contribution for a better world.
The Feast of the Presentation of Jesus has also been designated as World Day for Consecrated Life. Since this feast is also known as Candlemas Day; the day on which candles are blessed symbolizing Christ who is the light of the world, so the consecrated persons are called to reflect the light of Jesus to everyone. Religious Life reminds every Christian that on the day of our baptism, we have been consecrated to God. We have “put on Jesus Christ” such that we no longer live for ourselves. The aim of our life is to be pleasing to God and to give glory to the Father.
Prayer:Lord, constantly remind me that the aim of my life is to give glory to you as a candle that lights up the world. Amen.
Disclaimer: This section of the website is a personal creative writing of the author and does not necessarily reflect the official views, opinion, or policies of the Salesians of Don Bosco – Philippines South Province. For concerns on the content, style, and grammar of this piece, please contact us.
