Your word has been fulfilled
For those who pray Liturgy of the Hours, and more specifically, Night Prayer, today’s Gospel reading is a familiar one where we hear the Canticle of Simeon: “Lord, now let your servant go in peace; your word has been fulfilled,” (Luke 2:29).
Simeon, described as a holy and righteous man, followed God’s commandments. Because of his faithfulness, the Holy Spirit revealed to him that he would not die before seeing the Messiah, so he waited patiently and trusted what was revealed to him.
Simeon, like Mary and Joseph, were faithful to God’s word. (Remember Mary’s great fiat (Luke 1:38) and Joseph taking Mary as his wife (Matthew 1:24).) Each trusted God, who worked in their lives in incredible ways. This is not to say that they were immune to heartache. On the contrary, their lives were marked with incredible hardship.
Today’s Gospel describes Mary and Joseph presenting Jesus in the temple with a pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons. These humble offerings were reserved for those who were poor and could not afford a lamb or goat. Additionally, Simeon’s prophecy also speaks to the great sorrow Mary would experience when he said, “and you yourself a sword will pierce,” foretelling Jesus’ passion and death. Yet, despite the challenges and uncertainty, they each remained faithful to God’s word. What a fitting reminder for those who work in social action!
We encounter hardship every day, not only in our own lives, but also with those whom we serve. Like Mary and Joseph, individuals and families present themselves to our parishes and agencies every day in need. The needs can be overwhelming, but today’s readings call us to remain faithful to God’s word and His two great commandments: love Him and love one another. When we do that, the Holy Spirit will continue to do amazing work in and through us, so at the end of the day, our prayer back to God can echo Simeon’s, “Lord, let your servant go in peace.”
Catherine Zirngibl is the Program Coordinator for the National Association of Catholic Social Action and Mission (formerly known as the Roundtable). She serves on the Catholic Charities USA Parish Social Ministry Leadership Team and on the board of the Catholic Labor Network. She ministers as Pastoral Associate at Lumen Christi Parish in Mequon, WI and is the proud mother of James (10), Madeleine (8), and Daniel (4).