The Sorrow of Simeon’s Prophecy and the Joy of the Effects of Redemption
Fourth Sunday of Saint Joseph
On the fourth Sunday, the sorrow of hearing Simeon’s prophecy in the Temple is considered, announcing that Jesus would be a sign of contradiction and that a sword would pierce Mary’s soul (Lk 2:34-35).
The joy comes from Simeon’s words about salvation and light for the nations, anticipating the effects of the Redemption (Lk 2:30-32).
Tradition sees Saint Joseph as a generous offerer of Jesus on the cross, uniting his sufferings to those of Mary and Jesus.
This meditation calls us to have compassion for Mary’s sufferings and to share in her salvation.
Prayer
O most faithful fulfiller of the divine designs, glorious Saint Joseph! Simeon’s prophecy concerning the sufferings of Jesus and Mary caused you mortal fear, but it also filled you with blessed joy by announcing the salvation and glorious resurrection that would follow from them for countless souls.
Through this pain and this joy, grant that we may be among those who, through the merits of Jesus and the intercession of the Virgin Mary, will rise gloriously.
Our Father, Hail Mary and Glory Be
- First Sunday: The pain of St. Joseph’s doubts and the joy of the Angel’s message
- Second Sunday: The pain of poverty at the birth of Jesus and the joy of the birth of the Savior
- Third Sunday: The pain of circumcision and the joy of the name of Jesus
- Fourth Sunday: The pain of Simeon’s prophecy and the joy of the effects of redemption
- Fifth Sunday: The pain of the flight to Egypt and the joy of the overthrow of the idols
- Sixth Sunday: The pain of returning from Egypt and the joy of life in Nazareth
- Seventh Sunday: The pain of Jesus’ loss in the temple and the joy of his finding
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