Today, February 2nd is the feast of the Presentation of the Lord in the temple. It has been, as our Catholic history has shown, the day when all the candles used in the church for services and those of the parishioners are blessed.
My reflection centers on candles. Many are bought because of their beauty or because of the scent emanating from them when they are lit. My focus on them isn’t due to any fragrance or how beautiful they look, but, because of the light they give.
I remember always relying on these candles when a storm came and the power went out. How reassuring the candle light was to keep us out of darkness.
Jesus called us light. He asked us to make a difference and surely we do this when we provide a little light in a darkened world. What a great subject for meditation… how can I be light, how can I make a difference today?
What is it, in those who provide light for me, that is so attractive? It is so hopeful and heartwarming to hear Jesus call us LIGHT. His blueprint for a better world is put into reality when love replaces hate, when compassion replaces indifference, when forgiveness replaces revenge; life replacing death and light replacing darkness.
Let our light shine and all will praise God!