In Jesus's day it was a Jewish law from the time of Moses that the firstborn son be taken to the temple and dedicated to the Lord. So, Joseph and Mary took Jesus to the temple in Jerusalem to fulfill this law. While there, a devout Jewish man named Simeon was promised that he would not die until he saw the Messiah. When he saw Jesus he took the child and praised God stating that he had finally seen the Messiah. This is all found in Luke 2:21-40 Although, we (Jews who are messianic and Christians are no longer bound by the old laws, we still follow the beautiful tradition of dedicating babies, as Jesus was, asking God's blessings and wisdom to raise our children in the way that pleases the Lord. There it is in a rather long explanation but hope it helps.
Thanks Paul. I knew this passage, but never put the two together.
Hi Niki, this is an opportunity for the "parents" to publicly commit to raise their child(ren) according to God's Word. Hope this helps.
Thanks! Your answer is awaiting moderation.