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DEDICATED TO GOD

  • Writer: Olufunmilayo Adekusibe
    Olufunmilayo Adekusibe
  • Apr 28
  • 3 min read

Today’s Readings:

Malachi 3:1-4

Psalm 24:7-10

Hebrews 2:14-18

Luke 2:22-40

The Feast of the Presentation of the Lord, also known as Candlemas, is celebrated annually. It highlights the deep connection between Christianity and its Jewish roots. In Jewish tradition, particularly in the writings of the prophet Isaiah, Israel is called to be a light to the nations, revealing God’s presence to the world. In the gospel account, the devout elder Simeon recognizes the infant Jesus, brought to the Temple by Mary and Joseph, as the one who will fulfil this calling.


Simeon declares that this child will be a light for the Gentiles and bring glory to Israel, embodying the hopes and mission of his people. Simeon’s life-long yearning is fulfilled in this moment, leading him to a profound prayer of surrender, which has become a cherished part of the Church’s Night Prayer: The “Nunc Dimittis” ‘Now, Lord, you can let your servant go in peace, just as you promised; because my eyes have seen the salvation which you have prepared for all the nations to see, a light to enlighten the pagans and the glory of your people Israel.’ (Luke 2:29- 32).


While all this is beautiful and good, we need to dig into the implications of Jesus’ presentation:

  • Jesus’ presentation in the temple establishes for us the need to dedicate a child to God.

  • Entering into this world, each of us has a God-given purpose. The first sign that we understand this is by dedicating every newly born to God.

  • How do we dedicate a newborn to God? Through the sacrament of Baptism/Confirmation by which original sin is washed away, communion with the Trinity is established, and the journey in the spiritual life begins.

  • Jesus is the Light of the world. Every baptised Christian shares this purpose. In our unique way, we become lights, illuminating our world.

  • A lot of the people you will interact with today do not know their purpose. They spread the darkness of selfishness, distrust and envy—they end up hurting people without intending it. You need to be aware of this and offer the world an alternative experience.

  • We are in the world with all its challenges and problems. By offering it the light of Christ, we are going to be signs of contradiction. We are going to struggle with the constant tension between good and evil. Choose good always and shun evil.

  • Through Baptism/Confirmation, we embody the threefold office of Christ: priest, prophet and king. As priests, we pray for the needs of the world. As prophets, we witness Christ by a holy life. As kings (and queens), we lead others in courage and offer the world value at any cost.

  • Lead a sacrificial life by which you purify the world of evil and darkness. Use the gifts of your time, talent and treasure and the uniqueness of your state in life to make the world better—no matter the personal cost. It is a sign of Christian maturity to think of what you can give and not just what you can get.

  • Be intentional with your life. Grow mentally, physically and spiritually. Make the Scriptures a part of your day so that you become wise. And God’s favour shall be upon you always.

  • Be intentional about raising your child. Expose them to their faith early on in life. Model for them by your life, a good and holy example. Let them experience the beauty and challenges of living and loving through your life.

  • As the feast of Consecrated Life is being celebrated, we pray for men and women who have offered themselves to God through the profession of religious vows (of poverty, chastity and obedience) in a radical following of Christ.

  • I pray that God will help you with a spirit of discernment so that you will discover what God wants you to do in the world, where He wants you to flourish and how He wants you to exercise your purpose.

                                                                                    JUDE-MARY OWOH



To surrender your life to Christ, say this prayer aloud. “Father, I acknowledge my sin against You. I repent and ask for forgiveness in the name of Jesus. I surrender to the Lordship of Jesus. By the power of Your Holy Spirit, take control of my heart and lead me in Your path of righteousness. Thank you, Lord.”

If you said the prayer, Congratulations! Prayerfully look for a living church and meet the resident reverend, pastor or priest.



Prayer:

  1. Lord, I rededicate myself to You. I offer you the gifts of my body, my intellect and my will. I pledge to use my time, talent and treasures to spread Your kingdom on earth. Make me a light in the darkness and selfishness of our world. And may many be drawn to You through my life and witness, in Jesus’ name. Amen.

  2. I am a child of God. I am dedicated to His purpose. I live my life for His glory, in Jesus’ name.

 
 
 

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