Memorial of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary
Today’s Memorial recall’s the Presentation of Mary. This of course echoes the presentation of Jesus and the Jewish ritual of claiming a child for the Lord. Like baptism, it is outward reminder of an inward reality. The child we present is given this day and every day to serve the Lord. The readings today challenge us to give our all for the Lord; to live lives of holiness that utilize all of our God given gifts for the glory of Lord.
In the first reading, from Revelation, we hear of a vision from John. In this vivid vision, the sights, sounds, and smells are almost tangible. As we approach the altar of the Lord we hear the verse that seems to wash over the whole scene: “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty, who was, and who is, and who is to come.” (Rv. 4:8) It is no coincidence that our Eucharistic celebrations echo this hymn. Imagine heaven and all it splendor, echoing in our daily and weekly liturgies.
Sometimes, it is tough to imagine this scene of holiness when life can feel like such drudgery. Of course, life is in part what you make of it and attitude is everything. Part of this attitude is being determined to use the gifts that God has given us and use them to the full. In today’s gospel the master gave his servants each gold coins (gifts) and asked them to be good stewards of those gifts. While the master was away each servant did with the coin what they thought was proper. Notice that not everyone’s idea of proper stewardship was what the master intended. Also, notice that in this story only the Master is the judge of who used their gifts wisely.
We, like Mary, have been presented to our master who has granted each of us gifts. What have we done with our gifts? Are we using them fully or have we allowed the muck in our life to sidetrack our hearts? Are we to busy looking to see how others are using their gifts so that we fail to recognize our own lack of stewardship?
"Lord, we offer all we have and do to You. Help us to be like Mary and dedicate our whole life to the pursuit of Holiness. Then one day we too will sing with all eternity: “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty, who was, and who is, and who is to come.” Amen. Alleluia!
-Michael Montgomery