The Three Epiphanies, continued...

Thanks, wiki

The Church is the Bride of Christ, of which we are reminded daily because of the discipline of celibacy in the priesthood in the Western Church.

But, all of us are called to that intimate relationship with Christ. For a man, it is intense and total friendship. For a woman, it is the bridal love towards Christ.

The example of the purest and most excellent Bride of Christ is Mary, both Mother and Bride.

Her example today is ours.

These words apply to each one of us, to Mary, and to the Church.

The prophet was addressing the Nation of Israel, the Chosen People of God. They are the archtype of the Church.

Without the Church, and without Christ, we are desolate. With him, we are vindicated in Truth and Love. The Church and each one of us is a light to the nations.

Be that light today. In the growing darkness, be that light.

Isaiah 62: 1 - 5
1	For Zion's sake I will not keep silent, and for Jerusalem's sake I will not rest, until her vindication goes forth as brightness, and her salvation as a burning torch.
2	The nations shall see your vindication, and all the kings your glory; and you shall be called by a new name which the mouth of the LORD will give.
3	You shall be a crown of beauty in the hand of the LORD, and a royal diadem in the hand of your God.
4	You shall no more be termed Forsaken, and your land shall no more be termed Desolate; but you shall be called My delight is in her, and your land Married; for the LORD delights in you, and your land shall be married.
5	For as a young man marries a virgin, so shall your sons marry you, and as the bridegroom rejoices over the bride, so shall your God rejoice over you.