Reflection for Friday November 21 Memorial of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary: Luke 19:45-48

Gospel: Luke 19:45-48

Jesus entered the temple area and proceeded to drive out those who were selling things, saying to them, “It is written, My house shall be a house of prayer, but you have made it a den of thieves.”  

And every day he was teaching in the temple area. The chief priests, the scribes, and the leaders of the people, meanwhile, were seeking to put him to death, but they could find no way to accomplish their purpose because all the people were hanging on his words.

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Reflection:

The Memorial of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary in the Temple celebrated since the 6th century points us to a life completely entrusted to God. Mary, while still a young child, was brought by her parents to the temple in Jerusalem and was offered to God. This early experience prepared her heart to become the “temple of the Son of God.”

After Jesus cleansed the temple of impurities, He taught there daily. And even now, He continues to teach us every moment of our life. He teaches us how to live rightly, reminding us that life is not about accumulating material things or intellectual achievements. For Jesus, life is service. Life is humility. Life is sacrifice. Life is simplicity. Life is unconditional love.

What might Jesus have been teaching in the temple each day? We can only imagine that He spoke about how to behave in the house of God. Perhaps He also taught them how to live a life pleasing to the Father. Is there a model for how we are to live our own lives? Of course there is—the life of Jesus Himself. His life is the perfect template of holiness and purpose. But are we willing to walk the same path He walked?

As followers of Christ, let us also become teachers like Him. Let us teach our children about Jesus and guide them to show reverence and discipline in the church. Let us proclaim the life of Jesus not merely with words, but through our daily actions, for it is through our example that we best reflect the Lord. It may be tempting for some to think that His way of life no longer fits our fast-paced, technology-driven world.

But the truth is this: Jesus’ life is more relevant today than ever before. Just look at how our values are being corrupted, how human life is being devalued—even destroyed in the womb. Truly, Jesus is a man for all seasons and for all generations. His teachings remain timeless, powerful, and essential. Therefore, we must listen to Him with open hearts and willing spirits.

Are we truly listening to the Lord? – Marino J. Dasmarinas