Wrapped in a blanket, coffee steaming from my cup;Rosary beads in hand, I watch the gentle flames dance in the fireplace as they warm the room.
In the name of the Father and Son and the Holy Spirit, I begin this day.
It is now the fourth joyful mystery, Mary and Joseph present the child Jesus in the temple; with joyful obedience they present him.
Simeon, a righteous and devout man, is moved by the Holy Spirit and praises God, saying:
"Sovereign Lord, as you have promised,
you now dismiss your servant in peace.
For my eyes have seen your salvation,
which you have prepared in the sight of all people,
a light for revelation to the Gentiles
and for glory to your people Israel." Luke 2: 29-32
And, a prophetess, Anna, was also there. She never left the temple but worshiped night and day, fasting and praying. Coming up to them at that very moment, she gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who were looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem. Luke 2: 36-38
As I think of what faithful prayer warriors Simeon and Anna were, I am reminded of a prayer request that I had received yesterday from a beautiful great grandmother on behalf of her great grandson, Liam.
Liam is only 3 months old. He was in the hospital for about 10 days; most of that time was in critical care. He has been home now for about 3 weeks on the highest dose of medication allowed. However, he is continuing to have 5-6 seizures a day. The doctors do not want to increase the medications that he is on. Liam’s family is asking for prayers.
Oh Blessed Mother, just as you and St. Joseph presented baby Jesus in the temple for consecration to the Lord, please present baby Liam to your Son today. Ask Him to touch this little child with His healing hand and to bring peace to his tiny body. With each bead on this rosary, I ask you to increase the number of prayer warriors, like Simeon and Anna, on Liam’s behalf and to give his parents the courage they will need to get through this. In Jesus name, Amen
