Memorial of St. Lucy, virgin & martyr
The memorial of St. Lucy stands at the halfway point in our journey through the Advent season. The name “Lucy” is derived from the Latin word “lux,” meaning “light.” In some countries, a child dressed in white is adorned with a wreath of candles in her hair to remind us of the Light of Christ coming into our world in the darkest days of winter. The entrance antiphon profoundly expresses the path we are to follow in imitating this fourth-century virgin and martyr: “Blessed is the virgin who by denying herself and taking up her cross imitated the Lord, the spouse of virgins and prince of martyrs.” By denying herself and taking up the cross of Christ, Lucy was an embodiment of the humble and lowly people spoken of in our first reading from Zephaniah (3:1-2, 9-13), the remnant of Israel who “take refuge in the name of the Lord.” The responsory from Psalm 34 further exemplifies these anawim: “The Lord hears the cry of the poor.” The psalm continues “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted; and those who are crushed in spirit he saves.”
The gospel from St. Matthew (21:28-32) presents a class of people who are opposite of the poor remnant of Israel: the chief priests and elders of the people. Jesus says that “When John came to you in the way of righteousness, you did not believe him; but tax collectors and prostitutes did.” We are challenged this day not only to repentance and belief in the good news but to the defense of our faith, even to the point of death as did St. Lucy. The communion antiphon for this memorial reminds us of the way that Jesus would have us follow: “The Lamb who is at the center of the throne will lead them to the springs of the waters of life” (Rev 7:17). Are we willing to drink of the waters of life, to listen to Jesus’ voice and respond with a change of heart?
Prayer for today: O God, you are the Father of the poor and the refuge of the humble and lowly. Open our hearts to your life-changing Word and lead us in the path of life as we attempt to model our lives on that of your Son, Jesus Christ. Amen.
Reflection by Br. Michael Marcotte, OSB
Posted in Articles for Advent, Articles for Advent, Daily Reflections