Light has been a consistent motif found in Christmas celebrations throughout history. From the legend of St. Lucy’s candle headdress which enlivens the winter solstice in Scandinavia, to the “star singer” processions of central Europe where children re-enact the visit of the Magi while singing hymns, these images point to Christ as “the true light” (John 1:9) and “a light for revelation to the gentiles” (Luke 2:32). On this Epiphany Sunday service (the feast which follows the traditional twelve days of Christmas), many of the scriptures and hymns reflect these themes as well. Isaiah 60 announces that Christ’s light has come to the nations, and 1 Peter 2 declares that Jesus has called us “out of darkness into His marvelous light.” We describe God as the “Father of Light” (Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise), and the psalmist encourages us that “Light to the upright shall arise, though he in darkness be” (Alleluia! How Blest The Man—Psalm 112). We confess that Jesus is the “Light of the anxious heart” and the “Light of light, light’s living spring” (Light Of The Anxious Heart; O Splendor Of God’s Glory Bright). As we begin a new year, with all the anticipation and excitement that attend it, I pray that, as wise men hailed the guiding light of the star to Bethlehem, “so, most gracious Lord, may we ever more be led to Thee.”
—Henry C. Haffner
