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Full lections can be read here.
Based on the Readings as Set
First Reading (Isaiah 61:10-62:3)
Isaiah is caught up in rejoicing over the vindication of Israel that is surely coming. She will appear gloriously clothed in righteousness and salvation, with a new name, and as a royal crown in the hand of Yahweh. All the nations will see it.
Psalm (148)
The Psalmist calls upon all that composes heaven and earth, animate and inanimate, to worship Yahweh in a crescendo of praise. Yahweh’s glory is unsurpassed and he is raising up a mighty leader for his people.
Second Reading (Galatians 4:4-7)
St. Paul celebrates the fact that when the time was right God sent his Son to be born under the Law in order that Gentiles might be adopted as God’s children. Having been given the Spirit of the Son, they enjoy an intimate relationship with the Father, no longer slaves but heirs.
Gospel (Luke 2:22-40)
At the infant Jesus’ Presentation in the temple his Messiahship is revealed to Simeon, a faithful Jew who predicts that the child will be a light to Gentiles and bring glory to Israel even though he will disturb many. Later on the same occasion, the prophet Anna recognizes the child and points him out to those looking for Messiah.
CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS
- Great things of God are about to happen
- Yahweh is the universal God
- Gentiles are included in the salvation brought by Christ
- Rejoice!
- The Christ-event fulfills the greatest expectations of Israel
- The Christ-event divides history into before and after