Hilarious Light
Today I would like to say a special word of thanks to those of you who have supported the Dial Hope Foundation with a financial donation. Your gifts make this ministry possible!
As early as the 4th Century, the Christian hymn Phos Hilaron (Hail Gladdening Light) was already considered ancient. It was sung during evening prayers in Jerusalem when a lighted candle would be carried out of the tomb where Christ was buried. The light, of course, symbolizes the presence of the Risen Christ – the light of the world.
Phos Hilaron could potentially be translated as “hilarious light,” which is particularly significant since it most likely was sung in the catacombs during worship by the earliest Christians. In light of the promise of the resurrection, they could celebrate even in the face of death.
Our prayer today is this ancient hymn. As we pray, we join our hearts with our sisters and brothers in Christ over many, many centuries. Let us pray:
O Radiant Light, O Sun divine,
of God the Father’s deathless face,
O image of the Light sublime,
that fills the heavenly dwelling place.
O Son of God, the source of life,
praise is your due by night and day.
Our happy lips must raise the strain
of your esteemed and splendid name.
Lord Jesus Christ, as daylight fades,
as shine the lights of eventide,
we praise the Father with the Son,
the Spirit blest and with them one. Amen.
Daily Message Author: Joe Albright
Rev. Joe Albright is a graduate of Flagler College and Columbia Theological Seminary. Together, he and his wife Robbie have five children. He loves spending time on the ocean and especially enjoys surfing and fishing. Before entering the ministry, Joe taught high school Spanish in Cape Hatteras North Carolina and Lawrence Tavern, Jamaica. He has pastored churches in Sarasota and Jacksonville, Florida and is currently serving Trinity Presbyterian Church in Palm Coast. Full Bio “I believe deeply in the power of the Gospel to bring hope, love, and new life. I have seen firsthand how this beautiful ministry of hope has touched people’s lives. It gives me great joy to serve Dial Hope as Lead Pastor.”
