Feast of the Presentation of the Lord
In today’s gospel, in the midst of Simeon’s prophecy, Mary gets some bad news. In what should have been a moment every bit as joyful as our tradition of baptizing our children, she hears that she is going to be run through by a sword! ‘Have a nice day!’
How do I react when I hear bad news? Trials at work, a sick family member, troubles in the world, a bad business deal, a relationship going sour… What do I do with that? Whether we experience something bad or evil or wrong, or just the normal challenges of living, today’s readings show us a better way.
In the reading from Malachi, the prophet seems to be saying, ‘you will meet the God you’ve been seeking, but when the Lord comes, life will get harder, not easier!’ The life of Holiness is not easy. But it is a beautiful life. Unrefined silver and gold are not much to look at; after being refined, they become beautiful and precious. When I experience trials and challenges, do I see them as a way to grow in holiness? Or do I just try and get through it as quickly as possible?
How do challenges make us holy? The second reading offers a clue: “…Because he himself was tested through what he suffered, he is able to help those who are being tested.” When we are tested in life, it is an opportunity to unite with Jesus. Whether today’s trials are big or small, Jesus wants to walk through them with us. Our suffering draws us closer to him, refining us and changing us into a holy and wonderful creation.
Today in prayer, let us ask God to use our trials as a refiner’s fire. May we embrace the path of holiness, however challenging it may be. Amen!
Chris Nieport