The Presentation

“When the days were completed for their purification according to the law of Moses, they took Him up to Jerusalem to present Him to the Lord.” Lk 2:22

There is no love without sacrifice. Mary and Joseph took their Treasure to present Him in thanks to the Father. They presented with Jesus two turtledoves to be sacrificed as a thanksgiving offering. These two doves foreshadow the sacrifice of the Son of God for the salvation of all the world.

Simeon, the holy man, sees Jesus and responds, “Now, Master, you may let your servant go in peace, according to your word, for my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the sight of all peoples, a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and glory for your people Israel.” Lk 2:29-32 Simeon’s eyes may have grown dim with the passing of the years. Yet, he sees crystal clear what he has waited for his whole life, salvation and light from God.

There was a prophetess, too, Anna, who never left the temple, but worshipped night and day with fasting and prayer. Coming forward at that very time, she gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who were awaiting the redemption of Israel. Lk 2:36-38 Since there is no love without sacrifice, Anna showed she loved God by remaining always in His house. Since God cannot be outdone in generosity He rewards her with the blessed vision of Himself.