Reflection for January 6, 2017

"so that the inner thoughts of many will be revealed—and a sword will pierce your own soul too.”(Luke 2:35)

Even though it is Epiphany, my source has us continuing in Luke.  Today's reading covers what would be read on the Feast of the Presentation, which is February 2, and sometimes referred to as Candlemas.

We hear from two older folks in this passage Simeon and Anna, it is the only time we will hear of them.  Simeon's speech from which the quote above follows we get to say as part of Evening Prayer, the Song of Simeon or if you like Latin Nunc dimittis.  The quote above also contains the words that appear in the Stations of the Cross service.

My inner thoughts being revealed is a little frightening.  That idea of someone being able to know exactly what you're thinking is unnerving.  But when someone knows you pretty well, they often will say that they know what you're thinking and be right.  Of course there are people who make such a claim and aren't right at all.  We know that in our relationship with God, "all hearts are open, all desires known and no secrets are hid."  While that feels a little like the song about Santa Claus, "he knows if you've been bad or good."  For me that isn't what I believe about God.  This is more of an invitation to not have to pretend, to put on false airs.

The part about a sword piercing one's soul is different.  Simeon is saying it to Mary, predicting that his life and death will be painful emotionally for her.  As a parent I know that feeling.  While my sons have both turned out great, there were times as a parent that tried my soul.  And perhaps it is that knowledge that no relationship is not without that feeling, but through the grace of God it doesn't have to be a mortal blow.

Blessings,
Ed