The Feast of the Presentation of the Lord: In the Waiting (feat. Pr. Vieth)

This sermon on the Feast of the Presentation of Jesus in the Temple highlights the themes of waiting and suffering, both in the lives of Simeon and Anna and in our own. Mary and Joseph bring Jesus to the temple for consecration, where they encounter Simeon, who proclaims Jesus as the fulfillment of God’s promise, and Anna, who rejoices at His arrival. These two elderly prophets represent Israel’s long wait for redemption, a wait filled with suffering and longing. Like them, we also experience waiting and suffering in our lives—seeking relief from sin, loneliness, grief, and brokenness. The sermon reminds us that Jesus, the Light of the world, does not stay distant from our pain but enters into it, sharing in our suffering and ultimately overcoming it through His death and resurrection. The devil tempts us to doubt God’s promises, but Christ’s presence—especially in the Eucharist—assures us that He is with us always. As we navigate life’s challenges, we are encouraged to trust in Christ, who brings comfort and peace. The blessed candle serves as a reminder that even in darkness, Jesus is present, our light and salvation, guiding us until we rest in His eternal peace.

Waiting and Suffering Are Part of Faith – Like Simeon and Anna, we often wait for God’s promises to be fulfilled. Though this waiting can involve suffering, it is not in vain because God is always faithful. 

Jesus Enters Into Our Pain – Christ does not remain distant from our struggles but shares in our suffering. Through His life, death, and resurrection, He brings redemption and hope to those who feel lost or broken. 

Christ is Our Light in Darkness – Just as the blessed candle symbolizes Jesus as the Light of the World, He continues to shine in our lives. In moments of doubt and despair, we can trust that He is present, guiding us toward His peace and eternal salvation.