Shine On Us
O Radiant Dawn,
splendor of eternal light, sun of justice:
come and shine on those who dwell in darkness and in the
shadow of death.
This winter, since the weather is much warmer than usual, we seem to be treated with more intense sunrises and sunsets. The reds in the morning are sometimes ruby red, deep in color. The reds and pinks and yellows and oranges in the evenings are glorious as the rays shine all around us. I have seen more sunrise and sunset pictures on Facebook this year than ever before.
There is truly something about light. We all gravitate toward it. We know, inherently, that light is what gives life and warmth and direction. In light, we feel comfortable. We gravitate toward the light and we shun the darkness.
Today we reflect upon the “O Antiphon” O Oriens (O Radiant Dawn). Jesus, the splendor of the Eternal Father, has shone in our lives, scattering the darkness of sin. His birth was marked by a new star in the sky, a star so distinct, so bright, that it led the Magi to the place where Jesus was so that they could adore Him.
At the Vigil Mass of Easter, we bless and light the Paschal Candle and process into church singing, “Christ, our Light!” Jesus, truly, is that Radiant Dawn who casts aside all darkness.
If we live our lives in Christ, we will always walk in the light. We will never have to worry about the darkness of sin and death.
Walk in the light this day.
FAITH ACTION: Ask God to shine into your life as you reflect upon the following verse:
O Come, Thou Dayspring from on high,
and cheer us by thy drawing nigh;
disperse the gloomy clouds of night
and death’s dark shadow put to flight.