In only a few instances in the New Testament, do we catch a glimpse of Jesus’ life within the Holy Family.
In the Gospel for the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord that the Church observes on Feb. 2, we see Mary and Joseph, observant Jews, following the law of Moses, which required that they bring their male child to the temple for the purification rite. It’s a bit puzzling to us that they would be “amazed” (Luke 2:18) at what was said about this baby. They must have known he was very special.
But the Gospel’s message is a story for every family. How many times do we as parents hear good things about our children, and we are suprised? We learn things about our kids from teachers, other parents, neighbors, and friends, things we never knew, good things, amazing things. When some of those things are acts of kindness and generosity that have been taught in our homes, we can’t help but be pleased.
So go ahead and be amazed and thankful, just as Mary and Joseph were.
— Paul Pennick
Malachi 3:1-4
Psalm 24:7, 8, 9, 10
Hebrews 2:14-18
Luke 2:22-40 or 2:22-32