Candlemas Day Simeon, Anna and Jesus in the Temple

Candlemas Day

Third Edition

Gospel Luke 2:22–33 Christ, the Radiance of God’s Glory

When the days of their purification according to the law of Moses were fulfilled, they went up to Jerusalem to present the child to the Lord, for it is written in the law of the Lord, “Every firstborn male shall be consecrated to the Lord.” And they were to bring the sacrifice required in the law of the Lord, “a pair of turtledoves or young pigeons.”

Now there was a devout and God-fearing man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon. He was waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Anointed. Led by the Spirit, he came to the temple, and when the parents of Jesus brought in the child to do for him what was customary according to the law, he took the child in his arms, praised God, and said,

- Lord, now you are letting your servant depart in peace,

according to your word.

My eyes have seen your salvation,

which you have prepared in the presence of all peoples:

a light to reveal the Gentiles,

and the glory to shine on your people Israel.

Jesus' father and mother were amazed at the things spoken about him. (Luke 2:22–33 Third Edition)

The symbolism of candles

Candlemas Day, which we celebrate on February 2, is a significant Christian holiday that is strongly linked to the presentation of Jesus in the temple. This holiday has its origins in medieval traditions, when the candles used during the year were blessed in the church. Although the blessing of candles is less common today, their symbolism has remained strong. Candles represent the light of Christ in the world; church celebrations are especially sensitive when the altar is lit with an abundance of candles.

The role of candles in churches is essential. The number of candles on the altar varies depending on the feast day: on weekdays, only two candles are lit, while on major feast days, there are up to four or six candles. This candle tradition symbolizes the light of God, which brings hope and peace to believers. For example, on Candlemas Day, the altar can have up to 20 candles, which creates a festive atmosphere and brightens the spirit of the occasion.

The biblical theme of Candlemas Day is related to the presentation of Jesus in the temple. This moment is important because it reflects the glorification of God and the fulfillment of His plan for humanity. When Jesus, a young child, arrives at the temple, Simeon, an old and wise man, recognizes Him as the long-awaited Messiah, whose arrival has been awaited for centuries.

Simeon and His Words

Simeon, who had received a promise from God, was waiting to see the Messiah before he died. When he saw the baby Jesus, he praised God, saying,

"Lord, now you are letting your servant depart in peace, according to your word. My eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the presence of all peoples."

In this powerful statement, Simeon connects the prophecies of the Old Testament with the New Testament. He not only rejoices in the coming of the Messiah, but also reminds those around him that this salvation is for everyone. This is an important message. Almost all Christian churches around the world celebrate Candlemas and its significance.

The Story of Hannah

Also in the temple was Hannah, an old woman who had been married when she was young, but her marriage lasted only seven years. The Gospel of Luke tells us that Hannah was 84 years old. Her whole life was focused on waiting for the Messiah, and she served in the temple with prayers and fasting. This devotion is impressive; Hannah never left the temple, and her faithfulness was rewarded when she was present at the presentation of Jesus.

When Hannah saw Jesus, she knew that the long wait of God’s people was over. She recognized the One through whom all previous prophecies and expectations had been fulfilled. Hannah’s joy and gratitude were palpable; she told everyone what she had experienced and shared her joy with those around her.

The Meaning of Candlemas Today

The stories of Hannah and Simeon provide a beautiful picture of waiting and fulfillment. Both characters are examples of the significance of remaining faithful and waiting for God’s promises. The fulfillment of waiting is not limited to personal experiences, but reminds us more broadly of the importance of community; in many churches around the world, similar moments of waiting unite believers

While the format of Candlemas may have changed over time, the message behind it remains important. Candles in temples and churches continue to symbolize the light that brings peace and hope to our lives. On Candlemas Day, we connect ourselves with God’s light and salvation, which is available to all.

This holiday is not limited to celebrating historical practices. It invites us to deepen our own faith and consider how we can share God’s light with those around us. Only a minority of the congregation are active members of the community, so the work of Candlemas Day can inspire many to participate and share their faith.

Summary

The message of Candlemas Day through Simeon and Hannah emphasizes the importance of light and salvation. These two individuals, who were faithful in serving God throughout their lives, remind us that waiting and hope are central to our faith.

Waiting is not just passive; it is active participation in prayer and service. In honor of Candlemas Day, we can take time to consider how we can be God’s light in the lives of others. Let us be courageous in sharing light, especially in dark times.

Candlemas is more than just a memory of the past; it is an opportunity to trust in God’s promises for the future. As we walk toward the light that Jesus brings, we get to be part of this plan of God.

The examples of Simeon and Hannah remind us of the true importance of things: serving God and trusting in His plan. May we be a light in the darkness and move forward in the mission given to us, ensuring that God’s light shines above and around us.

Let us remember that in candlelight we can find strength, hope, and peace—things that Simeon, Hannah, and all of us long for on our journey.