'I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life.’ (John 8:12).
The Light of the World by William Holman Hunt (1827-1910)
Holman Hunt’s iconic painting is among the most viewed 20th-century artworks, inspired by the verse from John’s Gospel (John 8:12). This world-renowned image is rich with metaphor and symbolism.
The painting depicts two sources of light: the lantern, symbolising the light of conscience, and the halo around Christ's head, representing the light of salvation. The door in the image signifies the human soul. Its absence of a handle, rusty nails, and hinges overgrown with ivy indicate it has never been opened. Christ stands before it, seeking permission to enter.
The morning star near Christ signifies the dawn of a new day, while the autumn weeds and fallen fruit represent the autumn of life. Beneath the painting, the inscription is from Revelation 3:20: “Behold! I am standing at the door, knocking; if you hear my voice and open the door, I will come into you and eat with you, and you with me.” The ivy covering the door suggests that the clutter in our lives can block our openness to Christ.
This painting deeply resonates with the season of Advent, a time of preparation and reflection. Advent calls us to “prepare a way for the Lord” and “cast off the works of darkness.”
The term "Advent" originates from the Latin word Adventus, meaning "coming." In Roman times, it referred to the coming of an emperor, prompting the repair of roads to ensure a smooth passage. St. John the Baptist adopted this imagery to urge us to clear the spiritual clutter and debris blocking the path to our hearts, making room for Christ’s arrival.
So, what is Advent?
Advent marks the beginning of the Church’s liturgical year and is a season of preparation for the celebration of Christmas—the birth of Jesus Christ. It is a time to deepen our faith, embrace acts of kindness, and open our hearts to God’s presence in our lives. As St. Paul writes to the Thessalonians: “May the Lord… make you love one another.”
While Christmas often carries a commercial side, with advertisements encouraging us to buy the latest gadgets, the true spirit of the season can still be found. The act of giving gifts allows us to think beyond ourselves and focus on the needs and joys of others. Fr Anthony Jukes explains that the act of giving gifts leads us to think of others and to consider what other people may want or need rather than just thinking about our own needs. As St Paul proclaimed to the people of Thessalonica, it helps us to love one another.
Lord, may I be generous in helping those who are in need this Christmas.
Amen
Jason Giuliani
Deputy Principal Catholic Identity
