Friday 22 May 2015

5th day within the octave of Christmas

We live in a world where things are changing in an alarming rate. We have become so used to having things done quickly, that when something breaks down or slows down due to some reason or another, we become quite agitated and impatient. Some of us begin to grumble and even curse, thinking that such delays would ruin our timing. "Hurry!" "Quickly!" "Get out of my way!" These are some of the expressions we use, in our effort to get things done or get what we want. But life is such that sometimes, we have no choice but to wait or slow down, since there are many other things in life that we cannot rush. For example, we cannot rush through a pregnancy, since it takes time for a foetus to grow and develop into a baby. Also, we cannot rush through earning a degree, since it would be impossible for us to learn everything at one go.

In today's Gospel, we come across another example of learning the meaning of patience and perseverance in waiting. Simeon was an upright and devout man; he looked forward to Israel’s comforting and the Holy Spirit rested on him. Even though Simeon was already quite old, he would not see death and had to wait until he had set eyes on the Christ of the Lord. Instead of getting all worked up and impatient, Simeon waited with confidence and humility, and when he finally had the chance to see Jesus, he took Him into his arms and blessed God; and he said: "Now, Master, 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."

Are we willing to be patient and wait just like Simeon did? Sometimes the waiting could result in a better outcome or experience. It is a question of how much we trust in God and how humble and willing we are to let Him be our help and guide.

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