Someone left a comment on the Blog to say they had been in the Christingle service, on the Feast of the Presentation of Jesus in the Temple. Sounded lovely, with people giving a candle to each other to celebrate the light coming into the world. Unfortunately I couldn't get to a service, but a few reflections, if I may.
This is the end of the Christmas season. In solidarity with my European brothers and sisters, I kept the crib in my room till yesterday. Jesus' entry into the Temple in the Jewish tradition of a young male child is very significant for Jewish- Christian history and tradition, especially when the old man Simeon, blessed with wisdom and insight into the coming of the Messiah heralds the baby Jesus as:
'The light to enlighten the Gentiles
and give glory to Thy people Israel.'
This magical scene is the culmination of the account of the angel appearing to Mary, the visit of Mary to Elisabeth and the birth of Jesus. What a journey from the stable to the Temple! What a splendid setting amid all the Jewish people, albeit that Mary and Joseph had only a meagre offering for the purification of their Son-a couple of turtle doves!
And yet amisdt this joy is already more than a hint of sorrow, when Simeon predicts that with the mission of Jesus, Mary will suffer-as she is indeed to stand at the foot of the Cross.
This mysterious scene has always reminded me of the Synagogue of my childood. With hindsight, the combination of the Old and the New. The mixture of Joy and the sorrow of a people led into an unkown destiny, fraught with difficulties and tests of their faithfulness fo God and His justice.
But these mysteries such as Jesus in the Temple are utterly real. When my friend and her community were holding up their candles yesterday, they have trutly witnessed the Light of Christ coming into the world. Please leave your comments too!
Shalom and again Shalom
Sister Gila
1 comment:
Yes a wonderful time in the church. B
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