Simeon calls Jesus "a light to enlighten the Gentiles." Accordingly this
day was made into Candlemas, a feast of candles. The warm
candlelight is meant to be a tangible reminder of that greater light
which, for and beyond all time, radiates from the figure of Jesus. We
are reminded of the need to be prepared to burn brightly ourselves in
the midst of this dark world. We take a light away this morning, it is
not our own light, no light of our own would be bright enough, rather it
is the light of Christ. The light which at the beginning of creation
shone in the darkness and which the darkness could not overcome.
Jesus was a light to lighten the gentiles, all the nations and races and
culture of people.

The Candlemas Prayer
Lord God, you are the source of everlasting light.
Your son, our beloved Lord Jesus
was presented in the temple 40 days after his birth.
He was recognised by Simeon and Anna,
and welcomed as the promised Messiah.
May we like them, behold the glory of the Lord Jesus.
Grant that we may stand before you
with hearts cleansed by your forgiving love.
May we serve you all our days
and make your name known
as we worship you as our Lord.
So may we come by your grace
to eternal life .
Amen.