Daily Scripture Reflection & Prayer: May 20,2026

NOTE: For the remaining days of May, I will feature a Scripture text involving Mary as tribute to her in this her month as the Mother of our Savior.

LECTIO - Read Scripture Text:   Luke 2:22b-35

Joseph and Mary took Jesus up to Jerusalem to present Him to the Lord just as it is written in the law o the Lord, “Every male that opens the womb shall be consecrated to the Lord” and to offer the sacrifice of a pair of turtledoves or two pigeons in accordance with the dictate in the law of the Lord.

Now there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon, a righteous and devout man, 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 die before having seen the Messiah of the Lord. He came in the Spirit into the temple and was present when the parents brought their child Jesus to perform the custom of the law in regard to him, a first born male.

Simeon took Him into his arms and blessed the Lord saying, “Now, Master, you may let your servant to in peace, according to your word, for my eyes have seen your salvation which you prepared in the 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. 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 will be pierced by a sword so that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”

MEDITATIO - Meditate on text, allow the LORD to touch us with His Word:

BREAKING OPEN THE TEXT:

In this gospel text we witness the Holy Family’s observance of and obedience to the Mosaic law concerning the dedication of the first-born male. Central to the account is Simeon, a holy prophet, who recognizes Jesus as the long-anticipated Messiah and universal Savior. And Simeon warns Mary of the profound sorrows she will endure because of her love for her Lord and Son who will be opposed by many.

ORATIO – Lifting our minds and hearts to the LORD in prayer:

Almighty and Loving Father, I come to You today seeking the gifts and grace of the Spirit so that I might more truly follow in the footsteps of your only-begotten Son. Grant that I may grow in my love so that I might be a more faithful disciple. Help me to remain faithful throughout my journey as Mary, Mother of Jesus, Our Lady of Sorrows, and to not let hardships or suffering for love of your Son deter me or discourage me. I ask this in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with You and the Spirit, one LORD, forever and ever. Amen.

CONTEMPLATIO – Sitting with the LORD in silence for a minute or more