THE LIGHT OF CHRIST
As the year draws to a close, we contemplate the first chapter of St. John in our meditation. I am reminded of the Easter candle that is marked by the priest at the beginning of the Easter vigil, the great Service of Light. The markings are made in the current year, signifying Jesus as the Beginning and the End, the Alpha and Omega; all time and all ages belong to Him. Jesus is the same yesterday, today and forever.
The readings of this seventh day in the Octave of Christmas remind us that Jesus is unchanging. His mercy and love endure forever. In these days of the Octave, our hearts and minds have been contemplating the gift of God manifested in the Child born for us: Jesus. The same light that we celebrate through the lighting of the Easter Fire is the same light that has come into the world in these days of Christmas.
For the Jewish person, everything is light. Darkness does not exist. In fact, darkness is that void in which light has yet to penetrate.
John states that Jesus is the light that shines in the dark, a light that darkness cannot overpower. He is the light that desires to enkindle in us a holy fire, a fire of God s love. He is Jesus, the only Son of the Father, full of grace and truth.
In these last hours of the year, let us contemplate this light that never fades. Some of us will witness the joyous displays of fireworks as we are united in festivity. As we contemplate the beauty of the skies illumined with color and loveliness, let us turn to Jesus, whose light enlightens all people. Fr. Brian Steele, MGL
REFLECTION QUESTIONS: Where in my life do I need the light of Jesus to shine?
Lord, I rejoice in the light of Your presence. Thank You for this past year of blessings and challenges. Because of You, I look to the New Year with confidence and hope. Amen.
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