| February 2025Dear Companion of St. Anthony, I am writing this to you on the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord, a day when our Church traditionally blesses the candles that it will use throughout the rest of the liturgical year. The blessing reminds us, “Outwardly, [Jesus] was fulfilling the Law, but in reality, he was coming to meet his believing people.” Jesus, Mary and Joseph were not just doing their duty when presenting at the temple. As told through the encounter with the elder Simeon and prophetess Anna, they were acknowledging Christ is the light of our lives. The gift of faith in Jesus Christ enlightens us for encounter. As Simeon and Anna reveal, it can sometimes be a long, long journey of waiting and faith. Jesus wants to guide our path, so that we do not stumble on the journey. More importantly, the light He shares with us is intended for us to meet Him in person on the way. This gift of the light of faith is meant to help us to see how the fulfilling of our obligations as followers of Jesus has a depth that can sometimes be missed. I am reminded of Chapter 13 of the Letter to the Hebrews verse two: “Do not neglect hospitality, for through it some have unknowingly entertained angels.” The goal is not simply to fulfill our duty, as Mary and Joseph did, as important as that is. Our goal is always to foster personal encounter with Jesus and in his name with those whom he leads across our path. As we journey together as Companions this month, I’d like to offer you a blessing that has come to be called to the Blessing of St. Francis comes from the book of Numbers (6:24-26): “The Lord bless you and keep you! The Lord let his face shine upon you and be gracious to you! The Lord look upon you kindly and give you peace!” St. Anthony, pray for us. Peace,  Friar Gary W. Johnson, OFM Conv. |
|
|
