“... (and you yourself a sword will pierce) so that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.” (Luke 2:35)
Saint Ephrem the Syrian offers the following insight on these verses from today’s Gospel proclaimed at Mass:
“Simeon said likewise, “You will remove the sword.” Mary removed the sword that protected Paradise because of Eve. Alternatively, “you will remove the sword,” that is, a denial. For the Greek says clearly, the inner thoughts of a great number will be revealed, that is, the thoughts of those who had doubted. For he said, “You will remove the sword.” Indeed, you too will doubt, because she thought that he was the gardener. Mary wondered at his birth, it is said, and at his conception. She recounted to others how she had conceived, and indeed how she had given birth. Those who had doubted it were comforted by the wonderment of her word.” (Commentary on Tatian’s Diatessaron, 2)
Almighty ever-living God,
we humbly implore Your majesty
that, just as Your Only Begotten Son
was presented on this day in the Temple
in the substance of our flesh,
so, by your grace,
we may be presented to You with minds made pure.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, Your Son,
Who lives and reigns with You
in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever.
we humbly implore Your majesty
that, just as Your Only Begotten Son
was presented on this day in the Temple
in the substance of our flesh,
so, by your grace,
we may be presented to You with minds made pure.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, Your Son,
Who lives and reigns with You
in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever.
Glory to You Father, Son and Holy Spirit:
as it was in the beginning is now
and will be forever. Amen. Alleluia!
as it was in the beginning is now
and will be forever. Amen. Alleluia!
