Reflection for Monday, January 4

"The people who sit in darkness have seen a great light, on those dwelling in a land overshadowed by death, light has arisen." (Matthew 4:16).

This passage seems to be speaking to us directly. Are we not "people who sit in darkness" and dwell "in a land overshadowed by death?" It is winter, which means our days are more dark than light. We have been locked in combat with a deadly pandemic for almost a full year. Yet, when it is the coldest and darkest, we celebrate the birth of Jesus. A light has arisen. I could use a little bit of light right now, and no one shines brighter than Jesus. People from all over came to Jesus to be healed of their sickness and afflictions. He is a light to our darkness of illness and sin.

This passage reminds me of a story from Mark's Gospel. It has become an inside joke with my brother. A group of men tried to bring a paralytic man to Jesus, yet the crowd was too great. Instead of giving up, they cut a hole in the roof and lowered the man down to Jesus. There is a painting at Holy Family that depicts this story, and it reminds me that we cannot go through life alone. That picture reminds me of my brother. That memory reminds me of the love that I have for my family. That love reminds me that without God I would not be able to love them, if I did not love Him first. Love is the light that shines in my darkness.

"Love Came Down at Christmas" is a Christmas poem by Christina Rossetti, and I've heard that line in songs during Christmas time. A light in the darkness or love that came down at Christmas, they are both the same. We have a God that loves us so much, He sent His only Son to preach, teach, and heal. Allow His light into your hearts this year. Let Him guide you. You have learned from the Master so go now to preach, teach, and heal all those you encounter. 

Amanda McCaffrey