The Presentation of Jesus, also known as the Feast of the Presentation or Candlemas, is a significant event in the life of Jesus Christ, recorded in the Gospel of Luke. This event marks the moment when Mary and Joseph brought the infant Jesus to the Temple in Jerusalem to present Him to the Lord, in accordance with Jewish law. This event is celebrated in the Christian liturgical calendar, particularly within the Western and Eastern traditions, and holds deep theological significance.

Biblical Account

The account of the Presentation is found in Luke 2:22-38. According to the Mosaic Law, as stated in Exodus 13:2 and Leviticus 12:6-8, every firstborn male was to be consecrated to the Lord, and a purification offering was required for the mother. Luke 2:22-24 states: "And when the days of their purification according to the Law of Moses were completed, they brought Him to Jerusalem to present Him to the Lord (as it is written in the Law of the Lord: 'Every firstborn male shall be consecrated to the Lord'), and to offer the sacrifice specified in the Law of the Lord: 'A pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons.'"

Significance of the Event

The Presentation of Jesus is rich in theological meaning. It underscores Jesus' fulfillment of the Law from the very beginning of His life. By adhering to the requirements of the Law, Mary and Joseph demonstrate their piety and obedience to God. This act also prefigures Jesus' role as the ultimate fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets.

Simeon and Anna

During the Presentation, two prophetic figures, Simeon and Anna, recognize Jesus as the Messiah. Simeon, described as a righteous and devout man, had been promised by the Holy Spirit that he would not die before seeing the Lord's Christ. Upon seeing Jesus, Simeon took Him in his arms and praised God, declaring in Luke 2:29-32 : "Sovereign Lord, as You have promised, You now dismiss Your servant in peace. For my eyes have seen Your salvation, which You have prepared in the sight of all people, a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and for glory to Your people Israel."

Anna, a prophetess and widow, also recognized Jesus and spoke about Him to all who were looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem. Her presence and testimony further affirm Jesus' identity and mission.

Theological Themes

The Presentation highlights several key theological themes:

1. Fulfillment of the Law: Jesus' presentation in the Temple signifies His fulfillment of the Law, a theme that permeates His life and ministry.

2. Recognition of the Messiah: The recognition of Jesus by Simeon and Anna emphasizes the revelation of Jesus as the long-awaited Messiah, not only for Israel but for all nations.

3. Light to the Gentiles: Simeon's proclamation that Jesus is "a light for revelation to the Gentiles" foreshadows the universal scope of Jesus' mission and the inclusion of the Gentiles in God's redemptive plan.

4. Purity and Sacrifice: The offering of turtledoves or pigeons, a provision for those who could not afford a lamb, underscores the humility and poverty of the Holy Family, as well as the theme of sacrifice that will culminate in Jesus' own sacrificial death.

Liturgical Observance

The Presentation of Jesus is celebrated on February 2nd, forty days after Christmas. It is a feast that commemorates not only the historical event but also the theological truths it embodies. In many Christian traditions, this day is also known as Candlemas, a reference to the blessing of candles, symbolizing Christ as the light of the world.

The Presentation of Jesus remains a profound reminder of the intersection of the Old and New Covenants, the revelation of Christ to the world, and the faithful obedience of His earthly parents.