'....a light to enlighten the Gentiles and give glory to your people Israel.' This part-quote is taken from the Gospel of St Luke for today's Feast - The Presentation of the Lord or, as it has been long known, Candlemas Day. But why Candlemas? The answer is in the quote: Jesus the true light entered into the Temple in Jerusalem so on this day, the old man Simeoon recognises him for who is truly is and calls him 'The Light to enlighten the Gentiles' (all peoples) It is this reference to 'light' that causes all the candles to be used in church throughout the year to be given a blessing.
The true application of the feast for those who celebrate it, and indeed, for all who are Chrstians, is that they become the 'light' that brings Christ into what is very often a darkened world. Christ is made present in our world through the lives of men and women who pray, and offer sacrifice and through their good works. If all did just that in their sphere of influence, the Kingdom of God would truly be made present.
Image Gallery
Click for a larger image
