By Sr. Ruth Ksycki, OSB

Have you ever experienced the total darkness when the electricity goes off in a storm?  You stand in  a moment of panic and grope about for candles or a flashlight.  Then the questions come one after another:  How will I fix food or do laundry?  How will I open the garage door?  Ohhh!  No TV or radio!
This image mirrors the darkness we experience in our world:  How can we end war and violence?  What is the best way to provide food, shelter, education and health care for the poor?  The problems and challenges seem insurmountable.  But the prophet Isaiah says this: “The people who walked in darkness has seen a great light; upon those who dwelt in the land of gloom a light has shone.”(Is. 9:1)
And the angels said to the shepherds: “Do not be afraid; for behold, I proclaim to you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For today…a savior has been born for you who is Christ the Lord.” (Lk. 2:10,11)

As we grope around for solutions to the world’s challenges, let us stand with the shepherds on the hills of our doubt, fear, and anxiety and let the light of Christ the Lord enter our hearts.  Let us share the light of faith, hope, and love with others as we sing with great joy: “Glory to God in the highest … And on earth peace to those on whom God’s favor rests.” (Lk.2:13,14)