Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary
Revelation 14:1-3/Psalm 24/ Luke 21:1-4
The widow’s mite is a model for the poor and the rich. She offered just two mites and it was recognized as the best offering. God does not look at the offering; He looks at the heart. Oftentimes, we begrudge our gifts. This widow’s offering reminds us of Paul’s words; ‘God loves a cheerful giver’ (2Cor.9:7). It is not about quantity of the gift but the quality of the heart.
Today the Church celebrates the memorial of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Though this event has no mention in sacred scripture. One can go to apocryphal literature, especially the Protoevangel of St. James, for some historical context. Anna is reported to have sworn her future child Mary to the Lord after an angel disclosed her pregnancy.
The newborn was taken to the holy grounds soon after birth; only Israel’s best daughters were allowed entry. She was moved to the actual temple when she was three years old. In this place, according to mythology, she was raised like a dove and fed by an angel’s hand.
The celebration of Mary’s Presentation commemorates the Presentation of the Child Jesus in the Temple and implies that Mary’s life was somehow dedicated to God from a young age. As we prepare for the upcoming Advent season, let’s reflect on the mystery of Mary’s transient residence in the Old Covenant temple
Like the widow, Mary sacrificed her entire being to God by agreeing to the Divine will. This widow denied herself all she had to possess what the Lord was offering. We too should learn to align with the Divine will for our lives. In His will is our peace.
LET US PRAY
As we venerate the glorious memory of the most holy Virgin Mary, grant, we pray, O Lord, through her intercession, that we, too, may merit to receive from the fullness of your grace. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God, for ever and ever. Amen.
