Friday– Presentation of Blessed Virgin Mary

Gospel – Luke 19:45-48

Rise and Shine!

Church of Dormition, Jerusale

 

Every day of our lives, sunny or cloudy, stressed out or relaxed, we all rise and face a new day. Especially when we were little and getting ready for school, I can remember always standing before my mom as she made sure I (we) were prepped and ready to meet the bus from the steps of Dad’s store.  Shoes were shiny, shirt tucked in, hair combed, and school bag packed.  She wanted to be sure we were ‘presentable’! 

Today’s Feast of the Presentation of Mary is based on an ancient tradition that says Mary was taken up to the Temple in Jerusalem when she was 3 years old and dedicated by her parents, Joachim and Anna, in service to God.  It is a recognition of Mary’s holiness from conception to Assumption and her faithfulness to the will of God.

Today’s First Reading from the Book of the Maccabees recounts the story of Judas and his brothers re-dedicating the Temple and the restoration of worship in that holy place after defeating the Greeks.  It is the basis for the Jewish Feast of Hanukkah.  After the temple was recaptured, it needed to be purified and rededicated – an 8-day process. According to tradition, there was only enough purified oil to light the temple's menorah for one day, but it miraculously lasted for eight days, the time needed to press and prepare new oil. 

As we rise to face a new day, we also present ourselves before the Lord, praying for faithfulness and strength to endure the trials of life.  Great Spirit, guide me today to hear and do Your Will!

 

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