“My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for God has looked on the humble estate of his servant… God has brought down the mighty from their throne, and exalted those of humble estate; the Holy One has filled the hungry with good things, and the rich God has sent away empty.” — the Gospel of Luke
The final Advent Candle is the candle which symbolized Love. This is appropriate as we recognize the Christ child as Love incarnate (since, after all, God is love). This has been a difficult year for love. We have found so many ways to be divided and “take care of our own.” Mary’s Canticle when she is carrying her child speaks of how God’s love will lift up those who are hungry for love, for justice, for well-being. We are called to be that love in action in the world. Let Christ’s light remind you that love is not scarce – there is enough for all. And love never decreases as we share it. It only multiplies.
Adapted from Dr. Marcia McFee’s Advent Resource
In the days following Christmas, invite love in.
Practice a “Loving Kindness” meditation.
Consider where love has moved you in this difficult year.
Write a card to someone that you love.
“Love came down at Christmas” by Christina Georgina Rossetti
Love came down at Christmas,
Love all lovely, love divine;
Love was born at Christmas,
Star and angels gave the sign.
Worship we the Godhead,
Love incarnate, love divine;
Worship we our Jesus:
But wherewith for sacred sign?
Love shall be our token,
Love shall be yours and love be mine,
Love to God and to all men,
Love for plea and gift and sign.