Word to the Wise
Tuesday, February 2, 2016 - Feb. 2 - The Presentation of the Lord
[Mal 3:1-4; Heb 2:14-18; Luke 2:22-40 or 2:22-32]"Now, Master, you may let your servant go in peace, according to your word, for my eyes have seen your salvation, which you prepared in the sight of all the peoples, a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and glory for your people, Israel." [Luke]
The feast of the Presentation of the Lord is traditionally known as "Candlemas Day" because candles were and are blessed for future use in the church on that day, and processions in the Church with lighted candles are meant to invoke the memory of Mary and Joseph bringing the infant Jesus to be 'redeemed" because the Mosaic Law held that all first-borns belonged to God. Scripture scholars argue a bit about Luke's understanding of that law in this scene, but the charm and power of the event do come through Jesus' parents are portrayed as faithful and observant Jews. Simeon, whose prayer of hope and praise is repeated each evening the the Church in Night Prayer (Compline), along with Anna, represents all faithful believers, especially the Jewish people. Jesus is presented as the fulfillment of the prophetic promises.
The beauty and charm of the feast, I fear, are lost to the majority of Catholics in this country because it generally falls during the week. We are reminded of it only when we appear the next day in droves for the "Blessing of Throats" on the feast of St. Blaise! Although it is not necessary to use blessed candles to bless throats, the custom has endured and, like Ash Wednesday, appears to the general population, both Catholic and non-Catholic! My hope is that preachers on February 3 will take the opportunity to remind the congregation about the candles and the "light of the world" represented in the healing ministry of Jesus. AMEN
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