As the days grow shorter and the nights darker we see lights everywhere. We see them twinkling on trees in our homes, outlining our houses and buildings, and shining from menorahs. Since the earliest days of human history, we have celebrated with lights. Ever wondered why that is?
Yes, I know that there are all kinds of stories from various traditions that tell us why we burn candles, put up Christmas trees, and light menorahs; but why is it that there is this cross-cultural, inter-faith fascination with light during the time of year when we have the least of it in the Northern Hemisphere?
In the Gospel of St. John, we read: “And the same light shines in darkness, and the darkness does not overcome it.” In the Jewish tradition, there is the miracle of the unending supply of oil for the lamp. Pagans honor the time of the sun standing still with the solstice. Everywhere we turn this time of year, we see light shining in the darkness.
Deep down inside us all, no matter what spiritual or faith tradition we follow, we all know that there is a light that can outshine any darkness. No matter how dark our days or cold our nights, we understand that there is a power that will see us through.
Without the darkness, we would never be able to see the light. Without knowing lost, we would never know found.
So, this holiday season, I invite you to bear witness to the light. See it in those around you – your loved ones and strangers alike. But mostly, I invite you to see it in yourself. You are the light that shines in the darkness, the supply that never ends, and the power of the sun standing still.
Happy Holidays.
