THE FIRST SORROW OF MARY: The Prophecy of Simeon

Now there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon. This man was righteous and devout, awaiting the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he should not see death before he had seen the Messiah of the Lord. He came in the Spirit into the temple; and when the parents brought in the child Jesus to perform the custom of the law in regard to him, he took him into his arms and blessed God, saying:

“Now, Master, you may let your servant go in peace, according to your word, for my eyes have seen your salvation, which you prepared in sight of all the peoples, a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and glory for your people Israel.”

The child’s father and mother were amazed at what was said about him; and Simeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother, “Behold, this child is destined for the fall and rise of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be contradicted (and you yourself a sword will pierce) so that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”

—Luke 2:25‒35

Mary, mother and disciple

Simeon’s prophecy revealed to Mary that she would not be able to hold on to her son forever. The day would come when she would need to let him go, let him serve the wider world for the good of many. And she learned that this would be terribly painful.

Serving the common good is not always easy, but Mary’s example shows us that perseverance, faith and reliance on God can reveal our unique roles in God’s family.

Questions to Guide Your Reflection:

1. Is it hard for me to put myself in service of the common good? How do I find Jesus when I’m faced with hardships?
2. When have I walked with my neighbors in their struggles? How does love of our neighbors serve the common good?