Jesus said we are the light of the world, and to not hide that light under a basket. On this second Sunday of Advent we celebrate the light of Christ, of which we are a mere reflection. Oh, there is plenty of darkness around us: wars in Gaza, Syria, Ukraine; violence on our streets, in South Korea, and on football fields nationwide. My little light won’t make a dent in the darkness, and neither will yours; but if we all light our own candle and combine them we will be able to see our way.
Jesus also called us to be peacemakers, active participants in building a home for the Holy One, and for creating God’s reign on earth where all of God’s children can sleep in heavenly peace. Let us build a home for the Holy where AK-47’s are transformed into farm tools and bayonets into pruning shears.
Our Advent candle of peace is a beacon of light to show the way home to weary travelers who stumble in the darkness. And so today we once again light our Advent candle of peace, even though we may be feeling fearful of the darkness.
Please pray with me:
O Holy God, you spoke light into darkness on the very first day of creation, and no amount of human folly and sin has ever overcome that light. Renew our faith this Advent season. Remind us that we are children of your eternal light. And when we grow fearful or discouraged, let us remember these words from poet Amanda Gorman: “When day comes, we step out of the shade, aflame and unafraid. The new dawn blooms as we free it. For there is always light if only we’re brave enough to see it, if only we’re brave enough to be it.” Give us courage to be the light, we pray. Amen
Peacefully Harsh 