Reflect on Christ the Light all year

To the Editor:

During Lent, we are reminded that Jesus Christ is the Light of the World. But we have at least three opportunities to reflect on that belief publicly and privately, all year.

First, at the Easter Vigil each liturgical calendar year; second, whenever we are at a supermarket; third, whenever we are at the entrance to a garage or home.

This March 31, on the Easter Vigil, we are invited to respond three times to the proclamation “Light of Christ,” chanted by the presider. In the dark milieu, we respond, “Thanks be to God,” as the presider raises the Paschal candle higher and higher. However, this “Christ the Light” chant is only a reminder to those who attend the Easter Vigil.

A second opportunity to reflect on “Christ the Light” is at a supermarket where automatic motion-detecting devices trigger “welcome lights” in various display cases. As the customer approaches the display, the lights brighten, inviting the customer to “come closer” to the light.

The third opportunity to reflect on “Christ the Light” is at some garage doors and home entrances where there are mounted motion-detecting devices that automatically turn on lights at these portals.

So, the next time you approach the Paschal candle, the welcoming lights in a supermarket, and/or at a portal, remember that “Christ the Light” is always inviting us to come closer!

Sr. Annamarie Marcalus, OSF
Iowa City