by Return to Me: Lenten Reflections by Holy Cross 2019
"I am the light of the world."
Interestingly, in the joyful season of Advent, light may seem hard to come by. The days are short, with nightfall arriving earlier each day. Natural light may be scarce, but it’s well supplemented by everything from bright holiday decorations to the four candles of the Advent wreath, all dispelling darkness and illuminating our excited anticipation of the arrival of the Christ child.
By contrast, in this solemn season of Lent, Jesus is on his journey to Calvary and we are in days of reflective sacrifice and repentance, yet there is much more light! Days are longer and spring is close at hand, with its promise of greening grass, blooming flowers and budding leaves.
Why does God offer us so much light during a time one may initially view as one of darkness? Jesus provides the answer in today’s Gospel: “
Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”
As we follow Jesus on the road to the cross, he reminds us, through light and the life of a new spring, that he is with us. Through the hope of his sacrifice and our faithful discipleship, we will not remain in darkness. Look for light and life today and see the Lord’s unwavering presence and love for you.