CHRIST IS THE LIGHT OF THE NATIONS
Fr. Ugochukwu Ugwoke, ISch
Bible Texts: Malachi 3:1-4; Hebrews 2:14-18;
Today, we celebrate the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord. It is also the World Day for Consecrated Life. The celebration of Lord’s presentation marks the moment when Mary and Joseph brought the infant Jesus to the Temple in Jerusalem to present him to the Lord (Luke 2:22-40).
The Gospel reading tells us that Mary and Joseph brought Jesus to the Temple “to present him to the Lord” (Luke 2:22) and to offer a sacrifice of “a pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons” (Luke 2:24). This was in accordance with the Law of Moses (Exodus 13:2, Leviticus 12:8), which required the firstborn male to be consecrated to God.
Though Mary and Joseph were the Mother of God and the Guardian of the Redeemer respectively, they did not seek exemption from the laws of their faith. They faithfully obeyed the Law by presenting Jesus in the Temple. Their humble obedience teaches us the importance of surrendering to God’s plan. Many times, we resist God’s will because it is not convenient or not what we expected. We struggle to trust God fully when life’s challenges arise. But true faith is about letting go and letting God lead. Mary and Joseph teach us that obedience to God’s will brings blessings, fulfillment, and peace. Today, we need to ask yourself: Am I truly surrendering my plans to God? Do I trust that his will is better than mine?
One of the most striking symbols of today’s feast is light. That is why today is also called Candlemas, and candles are traditionally blessed at the beginning of the Mass to remind us that Christ is the “Light of the Nations.” Just as a candle dispels darkness, so does Jesus illuminate our lives with truth, love, and salvation. Today, we live in a world filled with darkness - the darkness of sin, doubt, hardship, war, and confusion. Many people walk through life burdened by fear, discouragement, and uncertainty. Yet, Jesus comes as the light that guides our steps, warms our hearts, and brings us hope. The challenge for us today is this: Are we allowing Christ to be our light? Or are we still trying to walk in our own darkness? This feast calls us to open our hearts and let his light shine in our lives.
At the heart of today’s Gospel is an encounter - Jesus met Simeon and Anna, two faithful servants of God who had been waiting for the Messiah. Simeon represents those who wait with hope, trusting in God’s promises, even when they take time to be fulfilled. Anna, a prophetess who spent her life in prayer and fasting, reminds us that true joy comes from seeking the Lord daily. Their example teaches us that: God’s timing is perfect - even when we do not understand it. If we remain faithful in prayer, we will encounter Christ in our lives. The presence of Jesus brings peace and fulfillment.
Just like Simeon and Anna, we must have eyes of faith to recognize Jesus when he comes into our lives. Sometimes, we expect him in grand miracles, but he often comes in small, daily moments - in the kindness of a friend, in the quiet of prayer, in the struggles that refine us, and more especially, in the Eucharist. Also, like silver and gold in Malachi’s prophecy in the first reading, we are called to be purified through trials and suffering, so that we may offer our lives wholly, blameless, and holy to God (Mal. 3:1-4).
Lastly, as we celebrate this feast, let us all be bearers of Christ’s light in a world that desperately needs it. As we receive his light, we are called to share it with others - in our families, workplaces, and communities. Just as candles are lit on this day to symbolize Christ’s presence, may our lives shine brightly as witnesses of his love and salvation. Amen.
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