Dear diocese,
From the day we moved from daylight savings to standard time, I have been anxiously waiting for the days to get longer and brighter. Candlemas is a milestone in the time of waiting for growing light, longer days because February 2, is also known Groundhog Day. Over the hump day. The day that falls dead center, between Winter Solstice and Spring Equinox. Part of the natural rhythm of the earth as the earth tilts on its axis and we continue to circle the sun.
As we celebrate sunlight growing noticeably longer each day, Christians also take time to celebrate the growing light of Christ in our lives, marked by the celebration of The Presentation of our Lord in the temple, AKA Candlemas.
On that day, we reflect on the experience of Simeon and Anna in the story of the Presentation of the Lord.
There seemed to be nothing extraordinary about that day in that place, at that time. Or so most people thought. But people of deep faith, Simeon and Anna knew better. Those two very special people had been waiting for the light in the form of a baby presented in the temple that day. And their encounter with him lit up their lives. Extraordinary times then and extraordinary times now.
Centuries ago, Candlemas was also when people predicted the long-range weather forecast:
If Candlemass day be dry and fair,
The half o’ winter to come and mair
If Candlemass day be wet and foul.
The half o’ winter gane at Yule
Not quite as silly as it might seem if you consider that in 2021, tradition dictates that the long range forecast depends on the whim of a groundhog. But the other day, I heard on the radio that people who take a more scientific approach than predicting the weather by watching a groundhog have concluded from their studies that we now have fewer white Christmases, short winters, less snow because the planet is warming at a dangerous rate.
In the beginning our loving God created the earth, an Eden, for us. Now all creation is at risk.
As we reflect this Candlemas on Christ, the light of our souls, may each one of us be a shining example of God’s love, lighting the way, influencing others, part of the climate crisis solution, caring for all of God’s creation. May we never lose sight of God’s light of salvation and peace inspiring us to carry out our commitment to healing in a hurting world.
May the light of Christ grow in us and may Christ’s light continue to radiate from each one of us.
Blessings from the outer world,
Rev. Marian Lucas-Jefferies
