As we head into the darkness of the winter solstice, peoples of the Nordic countries celebrate a festival called St. Lucia’s Day. On the old Julian calendar, it was celebrated just after the Solstice as a sign of increasing light. Based on an old story of Lucia of Syracuse, a Christian martyr who brought aid to Christians hiding in the catacombs, she wore a crown of candles to bring as much food as possible in her hands.
The symbolism of the day is important in our time, for it signifies aid to those hiding from persecution, and the promise of new light. In many respects, some of our churches have become catacombs of care to immigrant populations fearing the actions of ICE which, based on racism, have dragged US citizens into its net of brutalizing behavior.
As Christians we are called to care for those considered the outcast of society, whether they are immigrants or the many poor homeless we see on our city streets. We must ask ourselves in the midst of Christmas consumerism how do we care for the sick and dispossessed, so any now facing the cold of winter. Bringing the light to them requires more than the pittance many now get, but thoughtful new approaches to this issue.
Prayer for the Day
Perplexed by what we see on the streets of our Nation,
Often we know not where to turn or what to do;
Possessing the ability to think, discern, and decide,
We look for your presence as a guide. O God,
For it is often found in the most unlikely of places.
Embrace and guide us as we strive to live your Gospel
As did the One who is our Model of care,
Even Christ Jesus our Lord, Amen.
Thoughts for the Day
Life's most urgent and persistent question is: What are you doing for others
Martin Luther King (1929-1968)
A caring woman is a loving person, because she knows that love has the power to heal the world.
Gift Gugu Mona, poet, writer
Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due,
When t is in your power to do it.
Do not say to your neighbor, “Go, and come again,
Tomorrow I will give it” when you have it with you.
Proverbs 3: 27-28