O Oriens: “O Radiant Dawn, splendor of eternal light, sun of justice: come, shine on those who dwell in darkness and the shadow of death.” Isaiah had prophesied, “The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; upon those who dwelt in the land of gloom a light has shown.” (9:1). 

O Rising Dawn (O Oriens): O Rising Dawn, Radiance of the Light eternal and Sun of Justice; Come, enlighten those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death.

How appropriate that this antiphon comes on the shortest day of the year! After this date, the days get longer. Jesus coming at this time of year, during Christmas, symbolizes the light of Christ in our lives.

Here are some ideas to celebrate:

• Get up early to see the dawn and then go have breakfast!
• Eggs – sunny side up of course
• Citrus Fruit
• Anything “Lemony” says sunshine to me!  I think lemon chicken from the crockpot would be a good choice for us tonight!  Try this one! 
• We usually make a nice orange sherbert punch  with 7-Up or Sprite. 
• Hang some more Christmas Lights or drive around and see the neighborhood lights!
• Paper plate sun craft for little kids. 
• Sun Catcher
• Pray the office this evening with your family – The Antiphon goes with the evening prayer!

Timo Newton-Syms via Flickr, licensed cc.

Remember Advent is NOT LENT! There is the anticipation of birth in Advent – not the focus on death – that comes in a few more months. So it’s okay to be a bit more festive in my opinion in the days before Christmas – and to suffer the ashes in Lent!