1 John 2:12-17 / Luke 2:36-40
The days between Christmas and New Year can be called the least productive week.
It can also be called the holiday week where even if offices and factories are opened, the workers may want to take leave to enjoy the festive time.
But more than just a festive time and to take a break from work, it is also a time for reflection and to think about the events that are just over and the events that are to come.
After all, life is more than just having a good time and enjoying whatever pleasures there can be.
Or as the 1st reading puts it - "the sensual body, the lustful eye, pride in possessions" - that is only what the world has to offer and can only offer and no more than that.
But there is a mystery to life that gives us a hope for the future in which we look forward to.
The prophetess Anna was one who knew what that mystery was and she looked forward to it and she lived to see it.
May we also like Anna, spend time in prayer and even fasting, so that we will encounter the mystery of Christmas and look forward to the mystery of the future.