Daily Gospel Reflection for December 29, 2016

Today's Gospel: Luke 2, 28-35

In today’s Gospel, Joseph and Mary bring Jesus to the temple to present him to the Lord according to the Jewish law. They are poor, so instead of a lamb offered, turtledoves or pigeons are offered instead. In this completing of the ritual, something more happens. The holy man Simeon embraces the baby Jesus in his arms and knows that he has held the Messiah. Simeon believes because the Holy Spirit has told him. He prays to God, praising him for the gift of having seen “salvation.” Then Simeon turns to Mary and tells her that her Son will be a sign and that she too will suffer.

How many of us look at Jesus in the nativity sets around us all during the Christmas season and remember that this baby, this child, is our salvation? He came for us so that we might have eternal life. I look at Mary in this scene and imagine her thoughts as Simeon talks about piercing swords. Does she think, “Hasn’t this very out of the ordinary birth not been enough?” “What else will God ask of me?” “How will I handle the pain?” It’s easy to imagine those questions because I have had them myself about many situations that have come into my life. Saying “Yes” to God is simple, but it is not easy. We say yes out of love, obedience, a desire to serve but then life pushes in with demands that make our yes hard to complete.

If we look to Mary during those times, she will help us and guide us. Mary will be beside us during difficult times if we ask.

Ponder:

What areas of my life need a re-commitment of my yes to God?

Pray:

Lord, help me to remember that saying yes to you does not mean I have to do it alone. Lead me to rely on Mary for comfort and guidance in all I do.

Deanna Bartalini is a wife of over 30 years, mother of two adults, and Director of Faith Formation in south Florida. Walking with people on their faith journeys is the most satisfying part of her life. Deanna's personal goal in life is to always be "not lukewarm" (Rev 3:16). Find Deanna on her website, New Evangelizers, Facebook, and Pinterest.