THE SEASON OF LIGHT

                When God spoke to Moses on Mount Sinai, announcing his intent of leading the Israelites out of slavery, he visually manifested his presence with a burning bush. In Old Testament times illumination provided by some source of fire has been a part of divine worship. Within the context of Advent and Christmas light has a particular meaning.

                The Scriptures repeatedly describe the first coming of Christ as a light overcoming the darkness. Isaiah announces that: “the people who walked in darkness have seen a great light.” When Zachariah praises God for the birth of John the Baptist, his Canticle proclaims: “the daybreak from on high will visit us, to shine on those who sit in darkness and shadow of death.” And when the Gospel of John announces the incarnation the Evangelist declares: “the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”

                The use of candles in various ways to overcome the darkness of the night leading up to Christmas Day has a long history. In France, Germany and many other places light has played an important role in celebrating the season of Advent and Christmas. Since the 19th century, the lighting of four candles on the Advent wreath has marked the passage of Advent in many churches and Christian homes.

                The announcement of Christ’s birth by the appearance of a star has in sense codified the association of light with the coming of Christ. As we go about decorating our homes with various lighted decorations, let us remember that Christ has come as the Light of the World and pause to pray Come, Lord Jesus.