SPIRITUAL REFLECTION – The Presentation in the Temple
The Knights of Columbus are continuing their effort to write reflections on each of St. Luke’s stained-glass windows. The Brother Knights are trying to share the joy of the Gospels with you through the beautiful images as did the early Catholics in their churches. You can preview past reflections on the St. Luke website, under About Spiritual Reflections.
The Presentation in the Temple
Luke, Chapter 2, Verses 22-40
Excerpt from verses 25-32
Now there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon. This man was righteous and devout, awaiting the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he should not see death before he had seen the Christ of the Lord. He came in the Spirit into the temple; and when the parents brought in the child Jesus to preform the Custom of the law in regard to him, he took him into his arms and blessed God, saying:
“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
Gentiles, and glory for your people Israel.”
Personal Reflection of Rick Beebe
When I recite the rosary and think about the presentation of Jesus in the temple, I think about the preparation Mary and Joseph undertook while at their home to travel to the temple. I’m sure they walked some of the way and maybe rode asses or camels along the way. What an ordeal once they arrived at the temple to the chaos and noise and rituals. I will bet they were overwhelmed! I understand now that the visit was all about Jesus’s induction into Judaism and redemption at 40 days old. Mary and Joseph were fulfilling
Mosaic law to offer Jesus to God. We must consider that Mary forever shares in Jesus’s redemptive mission by the presentation of God’s son in the temple. Prophecy also is fulfilled with Simeon seeing Jesus in the temple and is reflected in Luke 2:29-32.
I also think of how humble Mary and Joseph were and that their offering at the temple was likely two turtledoves, or pigeons which reflects poverty or of being poor. What a great example Mary and Joseph set for all of us! I am forever grateful that Mary and Joseph followed God’s plan and that I am thus saved and look forward to when we can meet in Heaven.