There are many images that come to mind when we speak of the season of Advent -- certainly the Advent Wreath, in its simple way depicts the coming of the Christ Child, the Savior, the Light of the World, its candles consuming themselves as they burn. There are many references to "light" in the Gospel:
- Matthew 4:16: "The people who sit in darkness have seen a great light, on those dwelling in a land overshadowed by death light has arisen.
- Luke 2:32: “...a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and glory for your people Israel.”
- Ephesians 5:8: “For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light.”
Today we enter the final week of Advent. Traditionally the “O Antiphons” are sung during vespers this week: "O Wisdom," "O Lord," "O Root of Jesse," "O Key of David," "O Dayspring," "O King of the nations," "O God is with us."
These antiphons are found in the song, “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel,” each referring to the Prophesies of Isaiah. We will sing verses 1 and 7 this weekend, as is the tradition on the 4th Sunday of Advent. With the winter solstice on December 21, this “shortest day” means later sunsets and more evening light as winter progresses. Last week we watched as luminaria were lit along our sidewalks and courtyard. Today I saw a beautiful Christmas card by one of my favorite artists, Thomas Kinkade, the "painter of light." As the fourth candle on the Advent wreath is lit, may its light illumine your way as our souls, in stillness await the coming of the Savior, the true "Light of the World!"
