Words of Light and Hope from Tony Hawes

Candlemas

Arise, shine, for your light has come:

the glory of the Lord has risen upon you.

Though night still covers the earth:

and darkness the peoples,

Above you the Lord now rises:

and above you his glory appears.

The nations will come to your light:

and kings to your dawning brightness.

Isaiah 60.

Christ is the Morning Star

who, when the night of this world is past,

brings to his saints the promise of the Light of life

and opens everlasting day.

Venerable Bede.

The Sun that never sets has risen

and the world is filled with splendour

by the light of the Lord.

Light from light, we glorify you.

Orthodox liturgy.

The Song of Simeon.

Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace:

according to thy word.

For mine eyes have seen thy salvation:

which thou hast prepared before the face of all people;

To be a light to lighten the Gentiles;

and to be the glory of thy people Israel.

Luke 2.29-32.

Kindle, O Lord, in our hearts, we pray,

the flame of that love which never ceases,

that it may burn in us and give light to others.

May we shine for ever in your temple,

set on fire with that eternal light of yours

which puts to flight the darkness of this world;

in the name of Jesus Christ your Son our Lord.

St. Columba.