Eleazar, in today’s first reading, refused to be defiled by eating swine’s flesh. He bore witness to the purity of his faith and religious belief. In the gospel, Zacchaeus, the tax collector also made restitution to purify himself of his sins against God and the people. He finally realized his true identity as a child of God. His name, Zacchaeus, in Hebrew means the “pure one” or “innocent one.” He compromised his identity on the altar of greed and riches. Providentially, he later realized his true identity in his encounter with Jesus and promised to turn a new leaf. Mary whose presentation we celebrate today, was dedicated to God as an innocent child with a pure heart. From her conception till her death, she maintained these precious gift and identity of purity and innocence.  We are also invited to maintain the purity and innocence of our faith even in the face of persecution. We should draw inspiration from Eleazar, Zacchaeus and Mary. Eleazar refused to compromise his faith; Zacchaeus returned to his identity of purity and innocence, and Mary maintained her purity and innocence in the midst of an immoral world. 

PRAYER: Lord Jesus, give me the grace to stand firm for my faith in the face of persecution. Amen.