Your word has been fulfilled

Greetings on this the Fifth Day in the Octave of Christmas
Readings: 1 Jn 2:3-11; PS 96:1-2a, 2b-3, 5b-6; Lk 2:22-35
Notes: God’s promises are always kept. In each age a different set of circumstances but the same promises. Divine love and mercy are the compelling force of history sometimes hidden beneath the malfeasance of man if for a time.

Our promises to the Lord are the same promises. In each age different set of circumstances but the same promises. We may waiver and fail at times but strive for the right path.

• The Presentation in the Temple of the Lord in his infancy is a divine promise fulfilled.
• Our Presence in the Temple is to receive him gladly.

“Teacher, which commandment in the law is the greatest?”

He said to him, “You shall love the Lord, your God, with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the greatest and the first commandment. The second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. The whole law and the prophets depend on these two commandments.” (Matt 22:36-40).

First reading
Beloved: The way we may be sure that we know Jesus is to keep his commandments.

But whoever keeps his word, the love of God is truly perfected in him.

Responsorial Psalm
Let the heavens be glad and the earth rejoice!

Alleluia Verse
A light of revelation to the Gentiles and glory for your people Israel.

Gospel Portion
The Presentation in the Temple.

[Simeon] took [Jesus] into his arms and blessed God, saying:

“Lord, now let your servant go in peace; your word has been fulfilled: my own eyes have seen the salvation which you prepared in the sight of every people, a light to reveal you to the nations and the glory of your people Israel.”

Simeon blessed [Joseph and Mary] and said to Mary his mother, “Behold, this child is destined for the fall and rise of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be contradicted (and you yourself a sword will pierce) so that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”

Peace be with you,
Deacon Gerry