Tests, Results and Outcomes

THE WORD AND THE FEAST

February 2, 2024: The Presentation of the Lord
Malacchi 3:1-4; Hebrews 2: 14-18; Luke 2: 22-40

Do not bring us to the test, we pray everyday. But our life is full of tests. It is in and through these tests that the real quality of our life is brought to the fore. Mary at the temple today stands model to this brave spirit of a God-filled person: to face everything with a serenity that God alone gives!

More than the results of the tests, what matters is the manner in which we go through it. These tests are not mere situations to be overcome but are experiences to learn from. The true result is not whether you succeed or not; but that you come out of it better, refined, polished, purified, and made more whole. St. Joseph after every crisis that he faces, comes out more flexible at the hands of God. Another example of serenity!

The marks of having grown out of these tests should be seen in my capacity to offer myself into God's hands more every time. Truly speaking, however, the actual effect of these tests could either make me stronger or break my spirit... and obviously, the mark of a God-filled person is to come out of it ever more stronger in one's will to surrender to the Lord. That child presented today at the temple, will grow up to be the best ever example of someone who grew out of every test and remained faithful to his consecration!

Here is the special reason the Church wishes to commemorate this day as the world day of consecrated life... not just for the consecrated men and women of the world, but for each and every member of the people of God, let us pray that we shall grow evermore capable of living our lives with serenity that comes from an absolute surrender to God!