This story is a fictional rewrite of the Gospel of Luke 2:22-40. It is appropriate since today is Candlemass day, or the feast of the Presentation of Jesus in the temple.
Anna
“Everything’s so dark these days,” said Anna.
Her spiritual confrere searched her lined old face, “You handle it well.”
“I’ll never give up hope,” she answered. “I know he is coming.”
“Perhaps sooner than you think,” he acknowledged.
“What brought you here today,” she asked?
The older man cracked a wrinkled smile at her impertinence, “I’m not sure. . .” his voice trailed off.”
A temple priest crossing the square nodded respectfully to Anna, then addressed her mentor, “Greetings Simeon, shalom.” He expressed his need without hesitation, “We could use a little help today.”
“I’ve been retired for years,” answered Simeon.
“Priests don’t retire,” retorted the younger man. “We’re stretched thin.”
Simeon looked at Anna as if she could help him decide. His generosity won out, “And what duty shall I cover?”
“Receiving the children.” The priest turned on his heels and headed up the temple stair certain Simeon would take the job.
Chuckling under her breath Anna said, “Sly fox. He knows you too well. Looks like you’ve been inducted to bless the babies.” She watched Simeon make his way up the temple steps and called after him with a chuckle, “If the Hope of Israel shows up, call me.”
Simeon entered the courtyard where families had gathered to wait for a priest. He led a few of them inside where the altar’s candlesticks were lit and acolytes stood by to assist. One by one, Simeon took each child into his arms, and raised it above the altar in offering to God. He blessed the children individually and exhorted their parents to raise their children in holiness.
A second group of families led in by the acolytes stood quietly against the curtained wall awaiting their turn. Simeon noticed one of the young mothers keeping her baby peaceful by letting it suck on her pinkie. He motioned her forward first and held out his arms for the child. Unhesitating, the young mother passed the baby to Simeon.
Instantly, Simeon’s heart jumped to his throat, because he knew that he was holding the Redeemer, the savior of Israel, the One for whom he had waited all his life.
A voice rang out strong and clear; his voice, “Now you dismiss your servant in peace. . .” The words were spontaneous as a vision of the child’s future passed before his mind’s eye. He wasn’t surprised at the dark side of it, for how else does one redeem? The present moment was full of joy. Nothing could overshadow its grace.
He smiled at the little one and pressed it close to his heart not wanting to let go. As he returned the infant to its mother, he remembered his promise. He bent down to the acolyte and whispered urgently, “Go quickly; Call Anna!”
All our children were brought to the Church as infants to receive the priestly blessing. Like Jesus, they too were offered to God.
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