December 14, 2014
Liturgical readings
Isaiah 61:1-2a, 10-11
Luke 1
2 Thessalonians 5:16-24
John 1:6-8, 19-28
"He came to testify to the Light."
The rose-colored candle in the liturgical wreath is lit for the 3rd Sunday of Advent. The color signifies the spirit of joyful anticipation, of rejoicing; for Christmas eve would be soon. After two Sundays and two weeks of two dark purple-colored candles, a lighter shaded candle is now lit - heralding the coming of the Christ-Light into the world. There is more light now in the wreath with three candles aflame. Even if the other two candles have become short because it had lit two Sundays of Advent, the light is still as bright as it should be. There is a sacred solemnity felt whenever candles are lit. (Unlike Christmas lights, a life-giving spirit is either seen intuitively or felt emotionally - for the flame naturally moves with the direction of the wind).
Why is the coming of the Lord seen as an advent of light into the world? The reason given by the Church is that sin has brought darkness into the souls of all and extended to everything in the world. So the Lord Jesus is sent to bring light into this darkness - to redeem humanity and all creation from the bondage of sin and corruption. How? The gospel presents St. John the Baptist as sent to prepare everyone for this Light, the Christ-Light. John the Baptist was questioned by his hearers as to who he was. But he made it plain to them that he only came for testimony - to testify to the Light - to Christ the Redeemer, and Saviour of all. John humbly professes that he is not the Light, but only one who came to testify to that Light.
The symbol of light is appropriated to Christ and the pursuit of a life of virtue. Every liturgical year is a reminder to return to Christ, the Light for all deep within. For it is common to sometimes live in the surface of things, and be absorbed with the many distracting "lights" seen in the environments one lives and moves. But those lights can mislead and take away one's focus on Christ, the Light within. Advent always reminds to enkindle this Light within - received at Baptism, and which all the baptized are responsible for. When the faithful live according to this Light, then like St. John in the gospel, one too can testify to this Light - in the very common situations of life and work. All are called to witness to the Christ-Light wherever you are, and wherever you are called to be.
Scripture quotes for reflection:
"Rejoice always, never cease praying, render constant thanks; such is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." (1 Thessalonians 5)
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