The messenger of God promised in Malachi is called the refiner and purifier, not a judge. The question is asked, Who will be able to stand in his presence? Being in the presence of pure love can indeed be a very painful experience, for we feel our own imperfection and lack of love very keenly. Giving and receiving - yes, receiving - love is the hardest lesson that we will ever learn. Jesus shared our human nature completely, including suffering and struggle, so that He could become a compassionate and trustworthy high priest for all of humanity. We should be able to turn to Him as to a brother with our own pain and struggles, confident that He understands and empathises with us. We are not condemned or judged. Our own struggles and weaknesses are purifying, enabling us to share the human experience and become compassionate and merciful to others as Jesus was.

Jesus was presented in the temple of the Lord according to the Law. His coming was a delight and deliverance to many, the fulfilment of the hopes and dreams of humanity. But as purifying love incarnate, He was also opposed by many others. At times we might even unwittingly oppose Him, fearful of the changes that acceptance would bring to our lives. But we have a compassionate friend always at our side - the Lord - and He asks us to become the same for others.