Posted on: February 17th, 2025 by St. Stephens Downsview
Good morning, everyone. I’m delighted to gather with you, even though it may be online, to share some reflections from Luke’s Gospel. Recently, as we listened to Luke chapter 6, verses 17 to 18, it brought to mind not only the healing power present in those days but also the resilience we are called to embody in our own times.
The Resilient Mango Tree
When I think of resilience, my family’s home in the Bahamas stands as a vivid metaphor. Nestled on arable land, once a farm, it hosts a majestic mango tree just a short walk from the back door. Planted in the early ’80s, it has grown and thrived, weathering storms and offering its bounty freely. Its resilience comes from deep roots reaching the nourishing water beneath. It reminds me that our capacity to endure life’s adversities is deeply connected to our foundation.
Storms of Life
Today, we are confronted by tumultuous times. Uncertainty looms over our present and future, indiscriminate of wealth or status. Whether we live comfortably or face daily struggles, we all long for stability and meaning. When hurricanes of life knock us to our side, like that old mango tree, the essence is not the storm’s ferocity but our depth of grounding in Jesus Christ.
Rooted in Spiritual Truth
Our possessions and status do not define the essence of a truly lived life. Luke recounts that large crowds sought Jesus, seeking healing and authentic life. Among them were both the wealthy and the impoverished. Yet, Jesus taught that true life does not consist in possessions but in being deeply rooted in Him, the true source of life.
The Call to Authenticity
We must ask ourselves whether we strive for authenticity. Are we serving others with humility, or do we merely secure our own comforts? True life manifests in the character we cultivate—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, and self-control. These are the fruits worth pursuing, the life worth living.
Embracing True Life
God offers us a transformative life anchored in Christ, urging us to love God deeply. The storms will come and go, but God’s hands hold us secure. When we root ourselves in Him, we find peace and purpose, unaffected by life’s external storms.
The Invitation
If you feel a longing for this anchoring, approach the source of life, where you will find healing and rest. Amen.
Now, let us reaffirm our faith with the words of the Apostles’ Creed, placing our trust in this transformative journey.
As we reflect on these thoughts, let’s take a moment to listen to the hymn, “Thy Word,” inviting its message to resonate within us.
Posted on: February 2nd, 2025 by St. Stephens Downsview
Good morning, everyone. I’m delighted to welcome you to this feast day of the presentation of the Lord in the temple. To all our friends joining us live, a special welcome. Today, as we gather, let us reflect on the words from Luke’s Gospel, chapter 2, verses 27 to 28: Guided by the Spirit, Simeon entered the temple. When Jesus’ parents brought Him in, to do what was customary under the law, Simeon took Jesus in his arms and praised God. This act reminds us of the profound presence of God, drawing us closer to Him through Jesus Christ.
The Foundation of God’s Promises
In Jesus, we find our true place of rest, our sanctuary as we traverse through life. The promises God has given us in the scriptures, especially realized through Christ, are the very rock upon which we build our lives. They’re the anchors that steady us when the journey ahead seems long, uncertain, or stormy. These storms of life may crash upon our shores, yet God remains a steadfast foundation, a firm and reliable anchor.
Simeon and Anna’s Faithful Witness
Today’s Gospel recounts the fulfillment of God’s promises to Simeon and Anna, two figures who had faithfully awaited the Messiah. Though the exact length of Simeon’s wait is unknown, tradition suggests it was quite extensive, lending insight into his joy upon seeing the Christ child, a joy so profound that he felt ready to meet his end in peace. Anna, similarly, had waited nearly six decades as a widow in the temple, eagerly anticipating Jerusalem’s redemption.
The Vision Granted by the Spirit
Simeon and Anna were where they needed to be—in the temple, bearing witness to this divine revelation. Like John the Baptist at Jesus’ baptism, Simeon recognized the Christ not by sight, but through the Holy Spirit’s revelation. In Paul’s letter to the Colossians, he declares, “For in Him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell.” What an honor it was for Simeon and Anna to perceive this fullness in the infant Jesus.
Recognizing God in Our Midst
The same Spirit that illuminated Simeon and Anna dwells in us. Our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit. I often wonder if this indwelling Spirit grants us the vision to discern God’s presence in those around us and amid our circumstances. God is always near, intimately involved in His creation, though we may erroneously think He’s distant or indifferent.
The Call to See with Spirit-Aided Vision
Every encounter with another person, especially within the body of Christ, offers us a chance to recognize the Divine. These moments may be realized only in hindsight, often overshadowed by outward appearances or societal judgments. We must remain open to recognizing God’s presence, even in the unlikeliest encounters.
Staying Anchored Amidst the Chaos
In times like these, when the world appears to be spiraling into conflict and discord, it’s vital to keep our gaze fixed on the One who overcame the world. As we gather for baptism, let us remember that we are trained to anticipate a Savior, much like Simeon and Anna. Our prayer should aspire to recognize Jesus in our lives, inspired by the Holy Spirit to perceive His presence in love, mercy, and generosity.
Walking the Journey with Purpose
Even when it’s challenging to discern God’s presence, we can strive to serve Him in every interaction. The scriptures tell us that in showing hospitality, some have entertained angels without realizing it. Through love and generosity, we can uncover the divine in the mundane.
Embracing God’s Presence
I am reminded of the poem “Footsteps in the Sand,” which recounts how God carries us through our most difficult times, even when we feel alone. These are the moments when God is nearest, although we might only appreciate His presence with hindsight. As we continue our journey, let us remain aware of God’s presence, working within us and through us, guided by the Holy Spirit to recognize His work in a world that awaits redemption.
