The Promise of Light

Are you the type of person who seems to function better on sunny days? Do you dread the approach of late fall and early winter, knowing that your disposition will deteriorate even as the days get shorter?
Researchers have found that exposure to light among sufferers of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) can significantly reduce their feelings of irritability and fatigue. Although I don’t consider myself a true victim of this condition, I always look forward to longer days and the energy boost that comes with them. Once the winter solstice passes, I find that I am able to complete more tasks and I have a much better outlook in general.

Light makes us feel safe and warm. It gives us hope.

The psalmist who composed the prayer found in today’s reading obviously understood the significance of light: The Lord is my light and my salvation — whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life — of whom shall I be afraid?

In these reflective days of the Lenten season, may we take comfort in the promise of light as Easter approaches. Let us keep our eyes on the prize, secure in the knowledge that Our Savior’s redeeming love will carry us through even the darkest of days.

— Alice Ross