Feast of the Presentation of the Lord
Consider the faith of the Prophetess Anna and of Simeon. The Lord told them they would see the salvation of Israel early in their lives, and so they waited in hope. For weeks, months, years, and across decades, they waited for the Christ that God had promised. Have you ever had that sort of hope? What are you hoping for today?
In our first reading, Malachi is prophesying that the Messenger of the Lord is coming, and that his arrival will really shake things up! Do you hope for God to shake up our nation, our state, or your workplace or family life? These kinds of changes are difficult, but we are better for the Spirit’s refining activity in our lives. Is your hope coming to fruition now, through present sufferings? As the letter to the Hebrews states, because Jesus himself “was tested through what he suffered, he is able to help those who are being tested.” The present difficulties have a purifying purpose in our lives. With the Spirit, let’s make good use of them. They are a sign that our hope, Christ’s will for our life, is being fulfilled.
How long are you willing to hope in the Lord? Are the years getting Long? Are you becoming impatient? Take heart! The Lord keeps promises. Our salvation will come; the Kingdom of God is becoming more and more present here on earth, despite all appearances. May we continue to hope and pray to see the salvation of the Lord. Amen!
-Chris Nieport