To present Him to the Lord

“When the days were completed for their purification according to the law of Moses, Mary and Joseph took Jesus up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord”… (LK 2: 22)

Jesus, as the firstborn son was consecrated to the Lord as the law required, but there was no requirement that this be done at the temple. Mary and Joseph took Him there to respect God the Father and the reason why He was sent by the Father. When we “present” ourselves to God, coming to the Church, we respect God as a Father; we respect Jesus and what He did for us, and we respect the Holy Spirit, Who is leading us.

“A light of revelation to the Gentiles, and glory for your people Israel.” (Gospel Acclamation)