Feast of the Presentation of the Lord

Category: Religion and Philosophy

Feast of the Presentation of the Lord
http://www.usccb.org/nab/020206.shtml

Reflection:

Today we are shown that Christ's life was one directing us to the Father and that he did so using the Law of Moses. His parents followed that law and, in this first recorded act of official piety they start their son on His way. Remember His later statement (MT 5;17) "Do not think that I have come to abolish the law or the prophets. I have come not to abolish but to fulfill"
In addition to giving us an example of following the law, we are given another example. This example is how parents need to prepare their children to take their place in the community of faith.

Is it just me or have the past few days seemed to be directing us to be very mindful of the example we set for young people - especially our children. Although they probably don't remember it, when we presented our children to God in baptism, we made promises on their behalf. We also promised God that we would instruct our children through word and example. I counted - 9 times during the rite we are instructed in this manner. It is supper important.
In the end when we, as parents, stand before the Lord to answer for our lives I am convinced that what we did with his gift of children will figure prominently in our list of things to be proud of or atone for. So how do we most effectively do this?

First, we need to develop our faith so we can be teachers of it. That means we as parents cannot be just “Go to Mass on Sunday” people. We need to read scripture and develop a deeper understanding of our Lord. If we spent the same amount of time preparing ourselves for our secular (or ministerial) work as we do developing our personal spirituality, we would be hopelessly out of date.

Next we cannot be afraid to show our children we have that faith. Pray in front of them. Don’t just teach them to pray – pray with them. Involve them in service projects – doing things for others. Just do not be too surprised if they start challenging you to be a better Christian.
I should not get preachy here. My children are great but I could have done better. For any ministers our there who might have children – my advice to you is don’t forget to let them have “normal” fun. Too much involvement can drive them away.