Joyful
4th Joyful: The Presentation in the Temple
Jesus is presented in the Temple.
Lk 2:22-38
Mary and Joseph bring the infant Jesus to the temple. Old Simeon, who has waited his whole life, takes the child in his arms and finally is ready to die. He blesses the parents and warns the mother: a sword will pierce your heart. Joy and sorrow are already woven together. We meditate on the long obedience of waiting, and on hearts that say yes even to the sword.