A Prayer for Candlemas
It is an interesting fact that, whereas castle arrow slits were very narrow on the exterior of the wall but widened out on the inside to let light in, it was the other way round in the Temple in Jerusalem. Narrow apertures set high in the in the wall of the sanctuary antechamber were wider on the outside than on the inside, so that light from the seven-branched lampstand would radiate outwards to illumine the dark world beyond. Light, the symbol of God’s presence, brought comfort and hope. As we celebrate the Feast of the Presentation, we rejoice in the Light of Christ and his presence in us. We are called to be, not castles, but temples of the living God.
Lord Jesus,
light a candle of love
in that inmost sanctuary
where I shelter you
from the world’s
uncomprehending gaze.
Let it melt whatever fear
leaves me close-guarded.
May it glow so intensely
that others cannot help
but be drawn to see
what shines there.
