Luke 2:22-32

1. It was a day that started without an expectation of anything unusual. Simeon and Anna set about making a visit to the Temple that had become part of their daily routine. Joseph and Mary were going to make the presentation of their child in the Temple, an optional but common practice of God-fearing parents. What started out as an ordinary day turned out to be a day with a meeting they would remember for a long time. Perhaps you too have had significant meetings on what you expected to be just an ordinary day?

2. Simeon acknowledged that not all would accept the light that would shine through Jesus, and this rejection would be a cause of pain to Mary. It can be a source of pain to parents, teachers, church ministers, and all who work for others when some reject values, projects, or advice which would be for their good. Perhaps a sword has pierced your soul as well. What has helped you to maintain hope in such times?

3. Even within ourselves we can be aware of division, at times being open to the light of God and at other times resisting it. Have you known the pain of that struggle? What has helped you to keep seeking the light of God?

4. The final sentence speaks of Jesus as one who grew and became strong and was filled with wisdom. What has helped you to grow in wisdom? Have you seen others grow in wisdom through the experience of life? Recall times when you had a sense of growing up in some way. What brought that about? Think also of how you have seen growth in another person.