Finding the Gift of Darkness

I love the O Antiphon for today, which calls upon the Savior to come and enlighten "those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death."

In a way, the antiphon acknowledges that we all have times when we "sit in darkness," that times of darkness are part and parcel of life. All of us share our highs and lows on this journey.

Furthermore, sitting in darkness does not have to be a bad thing. It can signify the soul who can wait in faith without having to have answers. It can be the soul patient and content to seek without having to be satisfied right now. It can be the soul who is able to meditate, in silence, letting the darkness teach the soul lessons not got in the light.

Sitting in darkness may come as a recognition of my own state, my woundedness, my needs. It may be a time for reflection (meditation) or rest (we all need rest) when we can be still. The psalmist portrays this as a good thing when he says, Be still and know that I am God (46:10).

I think the antiphon urges us to find the gift of darkness, so that light will be all the more wonderful. For the antiphon says that light comes, not to those in light, but to those sitting in darkness, waiting, still, and ready.

O Dayspring, brightness of eternal Light and Sun of Justice; come and enlighten those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death. (Traditional "O" Antiphon)