Children of Light - Karen Pourbabaee
“For once you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light.” Ephesians 5:8 Amplified Bible
St. Lucia’s Day, considered both a festival of light and Catholic feast day, is celebrated on December 13 throughout Scandinavia and parts of Canada, the US, and Italy. In Sweden, the eldest daughter of the family arises early and dons a white dress with red sash, symbolizing the martyrdom of the young Christian saint in 304AD. With a wreath bearing nine candles on her head, she serves coffee and saffron buns to the household. The traditional custom ushers in the Christmas season. Schools, cities, and the nation elect a “Lucia” who visits malls, nursing homes, and public holiday events. St. Lucia processions predominate in church services this day, with white-robed girls singing special songs while balancing those nine candles upon their heads!
Legends tell us that Lucia, born of nobility in 283AD, secretly brought food to persecuted Christians in Rome living in hiding in the catacombs under the city. The candles that adorned her head helped to light the way, while keeping her hands free to carry goods. Lucia bravely brought light and life to the underground darkness of the catacombs.
We, too, were once in darkness until the light of the Lord shown within our hearts. Now, as children of light, we’re called to walk as such in the world, Reaching out to the poor and destitute. Carrying both physical and spiritual food to the hungry. On this day, consider how you might shine your light during this sacred time. Usher in the Christmas season in both word and deed. Walk as children of light.
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