Day 1

Scripture: Isaiah 9:2 —
“The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light.”

Clip: Jesus heals Mary Magdalene

Reflection:

Isaiah’s promise becomes flesh in this scene. Mary’s torment – loneliness, confusion, self-hatred – is the darkness we all know. Yet the Light does not wait for her to find Him; He comes searching. One word from Jesus, one touch, and the shadows flee. The “great light” is not spectacle but presence – the quiet, unwavering love that steps into our most hidden pain and calls us by name. Advent begins here: with light that finds us first.

Prayer:

Jesus, You found Mary in her darkness, and You find me in mine. Shine Your healing light into the corners of my fear, guilt, and striving. Call me by name again, and teach me to walk as a child of Your light. Amen.

Practice:

Sit in a darkened room for a moment tonight. Name one place in your life that feels shadowed or closed off. Then, light a single candle (or switch on a small lamp) and whisper, “Jesus, You are my light.” Let that small flame remind you that His presence reaches even here.

From the Catechism (CCC):
“Hope is the theological virtue by which we desire the kingdom of heaven and eternal life … placing our trust in Christ’s promises and relying not on our own strength, but on the help of the grace of the Holy Spirit.” (CCC 1817)

From YOUCAT:
“Jesus is the light that shines in the darkness. In him we recognize who we are and where we must go. He illuminates our hearts and gives our lives meaning.” (YOUCAT 471)