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The Forward Day by Day Meditation for February 2, 2021

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TUESDAY, February 2 The Presentation of Our Lord

Luke 2:34-35 Then Simeon blessed them and said to his mother Mary, “This child is destined for the falling and the rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be opposed so that the inner thoughts of many will be revealed—and a sword will pierce your own soul too.”

Several of my friends have lost children to addiction. These funerals are heart-wrenching. Not only is the family mourning the death of a loved one, but they often have experienced suffering and stigma before the final loss. One mother displayed pictures in the narthex from her son’s childhood: sweet, swaddled infant, beaming toddler on daddy’s shoulders, joyful sports team member, proud high school graduate.

The image of my friend standing at the front of the church during the funeral mirrored that of Mary at the foot of the cross. How did she find the strength to stand?

What comfort can be found other than knowing our Lord suffered and his mother suffered? Suffering does not necessarily mean one is being punished for wrongdoing. Jesus had done no wrong nor had Mary. There is birth, life, and suffering, and then, thanks be to Jesus, there is resurrection.

MOVING FORWARD: Pray for the parents of children who suffer from addiction.

PRAY for the Diocese of Aluakluak (South Sudan)

Ps 84 or 24:7-10 | Malachi 3:1-4 | Hebrews 2:14-18 | Luke 2:22-40