Kate’s Candlemas sermon invites us to step into the sacred moment when Mary and Joseph bring the infant Jesus to the Temple. Mary, raised in the Temple herself, returns to the place of her childhood, carrying the Messiah. Joseph, a faithful and steadfast man, walks beside her, honoring both Jewish tradition and God’s unfolding mystery. There, they meet Simeon, the high priest who once knew Mary as a child and now beholds Jesus with awe. He recognizes the fulfillment of God’s promise and proclaims, “My eyes have seen the Savior.” His words are both joyful and weighty, foretelling the trials to come. Anna, a devoted prophetess, joins in praise, her years of fasting and prayer allowing her to see the truth before her. These holy figures—Mary, Joseph, Simeon, and Anna—stand as examples of faithfulness, their hearts ready to recognize God’s presence.
Through their story, we are reminded that faith is not just about seeing but about being prepared to see. Mary, Joseph, Simeon, and Anna lived lives of devotion, making them ready to embrace the divine moment before them. In the same way, our own prayers, our own acts of faith, shape our hearts to recognize God’s work in our lives. Simeon’s song, which we sing in our liturgies, is a proclamation of peace, a readiness to step forward in trust. It calls us to live with open hearts, prepared to welcome God’s light into the world. Like those in the Temple that day, may we stand in faith, ready to say “yes” when God moves in our midst.”
Reflection Questions for this Week:
Recognizing God’s Presence: Simeon and Anna were able to recognize Jesus as the Messiah because of their deep faith and lifelong devotion. How can we cultivate a similar openness in our own lives to recognize God’s presence in unexpected moments?
Saying Yes to God: Mary, Joseph, Simeon, and Anna each said “yes” to God in different ways, through obedience, trust, and perseverance. What might saying “yes” to God look like in our own lives today, especially when faced with uncertainty?
Prayer as Preparation: The sermon emphasizes that prayer prepares our hearts for whatever may come. How has prayer shaped your ability to face challenges, and in what ways can we deepen our personal or communal prayer life?