By Preet Anupam Beck csc.
Readings: 1 Jn 2:12-17; Lk 2:36-40
The readings of today invite me to be a witness to Jesus Christ who brings life full of joy and peace. The first reading cautions me not to love the things of the world. The reading warns against three vices: the desire of the flesh, the desire of the eyes, and the pride of life.
The desire of the flesh can make me think only about eating, sleeping, and giving enjoyment to my body. The desire of the eyes can make me see only the sensual pleasures. The pride of life can make me think that I am better than others and that I do not need anyone. These are the root causes of all the cardinal sins; pride, greed, lust, envy, gluttony, wrath, and sloth.
Anna, the Prophetess in the gospel of the day, showed us how to live a holy life by renouncing all worldly things. Her total focus was to meet Christ, the anointed one of God. After meeting the Lord, she was full of joy and peace and thanked God for what she had witnessed. I am invited to follow the example of Anna in my life. I am encouraged to question the fascination of power, pleasure, and wealth and be a witness to Jesus in this world.