For Advent, David and I chose four images of Jesus, found some of our photos to reflect the image and then each wrote a short piece on that image of Jesus. We'll share one in each of the four weeks of Advent.
Jesus, the Light of the World
Photo: Susan Lukey La Sagrada Familia (Holy Family) Basilica, Barcelona, Spain
Rev. Susan: We paused in awe as we entered La Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, Spain. The colours were incredible. How did the builders achieve such brilliance? Then we realized that it was the sunlight streaming through the stained glass that created the amazing colour. We speak of Jesus as the Light of the world. This is what I imagine Jesus does. His light reveals the spectrum of wonder and brilliance in people. Jesus’ light reveals the depth of possibility and promise within each of us. Light is an essential image for the celebration of Christmas, but it is light that reveals not just Jesus, but also the blessing in each of us, and offers healing to our brokenness and pain.
Rev. David: It was pure intent on the part of Antoni Gaudí (1852-1926) the architect of La Sagrada Familia, to play with light so that at different times of the year and during different seasons the light would manifest itself in a beautiful range of colour, especially in winter when the light is low in the sky. How clever! And how thoughtful that the Holy Family basilica would be full of wondrous light at the time of winter solstice and the season of Christmas. To stand in this holy space and be immersed in light was illuminating and, in a living way, pointed to the Christ as warm and loving light for all who enter this glorious space.
Rev. Susan Lukey & Rev. David Robertson, High River United Church, High River, Alta.