In the Candlelight

Let your face shine upon your servant; save me in your kindness.  – Psalm 31:17

A cross-country trip enabled me to spend time with a dear friend and her family on the  East Coast. While we have seen each other often on her family trips to California, this was a rare chance for me to be in their home. Their daughter Lucy has learning differences and is mostly non-verbal. The long flights, time differences, and unfamiliar routines are difficult for many of us. Often when I see Lucy, she is out of her comfort zone. 

On this particular day, Lucy went to her school and her activities. When she came home, my daughter and I were there to greet her and  celebrate her 9th birthday. We sang happy birthday and danced with a life-size unicorn balloon. She blew out her candles with the biggest smile on her face.  Later that afternoon, when she reached out to grab my hand, I felt like I had just won the lottery. We were in her home, she felt safe, and there was enough space for Lucy to be herself. Lucy’s light shines so brightly, it changes the world around her, demanding reverence and awe. In that moment, I felt privileged to be in the shadow of her light. 

The Feast of St. Lucy falls on the winter solstice, one of the darkest days of the year. Lucy was a 4th century martyr who demonstrated great faith in God and service to the poor, despite facing persecution and ultimately martyrdom. Many countries celebrate today’s Feast of St. Lucy with candlelight processions, reminding us that there is light all around us even in the darkest of moments. Children often wear crowns of candles, symbolizing that we each bear Christ’s light and hope in the world. 

My prayer today is to sit with the memory of  sweet Lucy’s face, illuminated by her birthday candles. These candles are a reminder that her life has changed the world around her. 

How is your own life reflecting God’s love for the world? What light will you carry into the day?