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Wednesday, December 20
Wednesday of the Second Week of Advent

The Light that Is a Mystery

In the beginning of his Gospel, John beautifully synthesizes Advent and Christmas: “The true light, which enlightens everyone, was coming into the world.” (Jn 1:9) Advent is when we await this light; Christmas is when we celebrate this light. The lights around our houses and on our trees are reminders of this true light. The first moment this light broke into the darkness was when Jesus entered Mary’s womb. A virgin’s womb has no reason to expect the presence of a child. Yet into this dark enclosure comes the child who is the light of the human race. Our Christmas lights are noble but pale images of this true light. Our lights come from electricity or flame. The source of this light is a Mystery. This Mystery would come to be known as Father through the human face of the Son of God who would call this Virgin his Mother. This familiarity of God with us is the good news of Christianity. It is what we want to await with eyes wide open during Advent. Let us seek this light even, and especially, in those situations where we least expect it. For it all began with a poor virgin in a small town whose “Yes” brought about the fulfillment of the promise of a King whose kingdom, and whose light, would last for ever.

Reflection based on Luke 1:26-38
Father Richard Veras

Loving Father, do not let me be overcome by the darkness in my life. In Mary, help me to claim the light.