The Mighty and The Candle in The Wind

So many untoward events for January 2020! From natural disasters to pandemic health issues, we have experienced a crisis, a threat to our health and well-being. This, however, continues and is within our control.

The start of the year may not be good, but it gives us tough lessons to ponder about our strengths and weaknesses — our vulnerabilities as human beings.

We can not be sure about what is next, but one thing that can help us survive is faith in things beyond our control. That a higher and Supreme being is in charge.

We feel mighty at times, feeling powerful. However, there are moments when we are crushed in spirit.

When we are weak and feeling helpless and powerless, our Divine master is there to rescue us. And when the road is rough and the surrounding is dark, we seek the Divine light.

When we feel blessed and grateful, we always see the guiding light. And so, in bad times and good times, we need the Divine light. We never stop to follow and seeking the truth and life.

Today, the 2nd of February is the Feast day of Nuestra Señora de La Candelaria, or the Our Lady of the Candles. Known as the Patroness of the entire Western Visayas, Philippines.

The Holy image canonically crowned in 1981 by now St. John Paul II brought miracles, healings, and blessings to the people in the Region and the entire country when flocks of the faithful from every place visit the blessed Marian image and pray to God for Her intercession.

Back in 2016, when I lived and worked in Iloilo, I always felt the serenity of the National Shrine of the Our Lady of Candles. I had celebrated Sunday masses and the Holy week, which was brought to light when I was a Candle in the wind and weak and vulnerable.

The devotion started in recent years and in the late 90s when our dear mother brought us to celebrate the feast day mass. And years after knowing its miracles, I visit to offer a prayer and thanksgiving. That is faith. To continue the devotion for years and for a lifetime.

The Our Lady of the Candles is just one of the many Marian titles given to the Mother of Christ. We always pray for her intercession for all our wishes and whatever our heart desires.

And for the happenings in the world today, we go beyond our personal intentions and petitions. We pray for our people, our country, and the world. That healing will take place, and peace will reign in the world and our hearts forever. 

© 2020 Del Cusay