YEAR A: HOMILY FOR THE FEAST OF THE PRESENTATION OF THE LORD (1)

YEAR A: HOMILY FOR THE FEAST OF THE PRESENTATION OF THE LORD

HOMILY THEME: TRUE HUMANITY OF JESUS

BY: Fr. Benny Tuazon

HOMILY: (Lk. 2:22-40) Feast of the Presentation of the Lord in the Temple

In today’s Gospel, Jesus is presented in the temple by His parents as was customary. While on their way to the place of offering, Simeon and Ana met them both were awaiting the coming of the Messiah. Their waiting was ended when they saw the baby, being carried by His parents. Simeon met the child and proclaimed the end of his waiting and the beginning of salvation.
Candles are blessed today in masses in all churches. Candles are symbols of light and the Lord’s presence. Jesus was prophesied to be the light of the world. His light means goodness and enlightenment. The blessed candles, when lighted, is a sign of God’s presence. We light candles in times of need and thanksgiving.

This feast reminds us of God’s fulfillment of His promise to send a Messiah. The presentation in the temple of Jesus is a sign of His true humanity. Like any other first born Jew, He was to be presented in the temple. He is also the light of the world. As Christians, we share in that light. If Jesus is the light of all nations, we are a part and reflection of that light. We too must be light for others. Jesus’ light which we received in baptism should be shared to others. We do not conceal our light.

I know of parents who light candles for their children in times of need. They ask Jesus’ grace for their children and friends to emerge triumphant over temptations and dangers. Through those candles, we experience God’s loving presence.

We caution those who regard the candles as amulets or “agimats” which will drive away evil and its cohorts. The candles have no power. The power is in the Lord!