My Thoughts on 21/11/2020

Today is the feast of the Presentation of Mary in the Temple.

The feast dates back to the 6th century in the East and the 15th century in the West. It is based on an ancient tradition that says Mary was taken to the temple in Jerusalem when she was 3-years-old and dedicated to God. We don’t find this event in any of the gospel.

What we celebrate on this day is the fact that God chose to dwell in Mary in a very special way. Mary responded to the message of the angel by saying yes, “let it be done according to your word.” This is known as the Fiat of Mary. In response, Mary placed her whole self at the service of God.

I recall that it was on this feast day that those in religious life would renew their commitment and give thanks for the blessing that God had given them when they answered his call. Today we can recall our own baptism, our own calling. It is from that moment that God is inviting us to open to his grace.

Let us dedicate ourselves to him today and surrender ourselves to the Lord, as Mary did.