Today’s Readings:
Malachi 3:1-4
Psalm 24:7-10
Luke 2:22-40
Last night, I watched a debate between a single lady and a married woman. Each was arguing for who is happier in their state of life. The married woman claimed that she is happier and more fulfilled because she enjoys the companionship of a husband and children. The single lady argued that she is fulfilled in being free to pursue her career, actualize her dreams and not be burdened with the thought that she needs a man in her life to feel complete. In the end, they both agreed to disagree.
When we celebrate the Presentation of Jesus in the temple, He opens our eyes to a new reality, one in which God’s expectation of us supersedes our personal goals. Jesus came into this world to do the Father’s will (John 6:38). He was chaste and went about doing good (Acts 10:38). He was poor and had no place to lay his head (Matthew 8:20). Yet, he was happy, complete and fulfilled. In Jesus, we see that true happiness consists in radically following God. This radical discipleship is what has birthed the consecrated life in the Christian church where men and women of all ages, dedicate their time, treasure and talents to build the Church and witness to God’s kingdom. Their singleness of life and purpose inspires us to turn our gaze towards heaven where we shall neither marry nor be given in marriage but live only for God and His glory (Matthew 22:30).
To marry or not marry is not the question. Whether you choose a married life like Mary and Joseph, or you choose to dedicate yourself to God like Simeon and Anna, the goal should always be to follow God. In Baptism and confirmation, we all are dedicated to God and pursue a vocation in His Church. Marriage is a vocation, a response to love your spouse as Christ loves the Church. Your vocation as a single person is to serve God with your freedom and singleness and not just focus on yourself. A vocation to the consecrated life is choosing to set aside the pressures and pleasures of life in favour of service and witness to God through a life of poverty, chastity and obedience.
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 believe and 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 above short prayer, Congratulations! Prayerfully look for a living church and report to the resident reverend, pastor or priest.
Prayer:
May single persons find fulfilment in serving others and not succumb to the pressure to conform to worldly standards in Jesus’ name.
May married persons see in each other opportunities to love unconditionally, to forgive wholeheartedly and strive for holiness of life together through Christ our Lord.
May consecrated persons live a life of witness to the Gospel values and point others to the glory of heaven in Jesus’ name.
May every member of the church see themselves as called to holiness and service and work for the establishment of God’s kingdom of joy and peace in the world through Christ our Lord. Amen.
May Christ who was presented in the temple, dispel your fears and anxiety, consecrate you to His service and use your every thought, word, action, experience, hopes and dreams for His glory and your salvation through the same Christ our Lord. Amen.
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