Ave Maria Meditations
Lk 2:25-35 And behold there was a man in Jerusalem named Simeon, and this man was just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel; and the Holy Ghost was in him. And he had received an answer from the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Christ of the Lord.
And he came by the Spirit into the temple. And when His parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him according to the custom of the law, he also took Him into his arms, and blessed God, and said: Now thou dost dismiss thy servant, O Lord, according to thy word in peace; because my eyes have seen Thy salvation, which Thou hast prepared before the face of all peoples: A light to the revelation of the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel.
And His father and mother were wondering at those things which were spoken concerning Him. And Simeon blessed them and said to Mary His mother: Behold this Child is set for the fall, and for the resurrection of many in Israel, and for a sign which shall be contradicted; And thy own soul a sword shall pierce, that, out of many hearts, thoughts may be revealed.
Some short prayers from TodayPrayers.com:
“Lord Jesus Christ, you are the Light of the world. On this day we celebrate your presentation at the Temple. Help us to bring Your light into our lives. “Holy Spirit, guide us as we celebrate Candlemas. Help us to remember the importance of this day and to always keep Jesus Christ as the light in our lives. Amen.”
“Blessed are you, Lord God of all creation. Through Your goodness we have this candle to light our way. As we celebrate the Purification of Mary, help us to purify our hearts, that we may always walk in Your truth. Amen.”
O Divine Redeemer, who made yourself known to Simeon as the light of revelation to the Gentiles and glory of Israel, make us ever attentive to Your word that we may come to know You more fully and follow You more closely every day. Amen.
