A few days ago, I was reminded of some stained glass pictures I took a few months ago at Kenrick-Glennon Seminary. I always love taking pictures of stained glass windows, because of the awesome symbolism contained not only within the images depicted in the stained glass, but even more importantly the symbolism of the stained glass as an example of what we are to do: let God's light and life shine through our lives. For without God's light shining through us, there is darkness and emptiness (as is the case for a stained glass window at night).
One window is especially meaningful as I make my Advent preparations for Christmas this year:
In this stained glass image, we see the perfect example of what it is to be human and to let only God shine forth in Mary. She is wearing blue in most depictions to represent her humanity—a perfect, unsullied humanity. She never said no, and the artist in this stained glass window cleverly made her halo the most vibrant.
On the right side of the window, we have St. Elizabeth and Zechariah; a couple who are very holy and pious, but who have not always said yes to God. They can be an even more poignant reminder to us of where we are in our faith. Zechariah was made mute because he didn't believe what God told him (namely, that his wife would have a baby—John—in her old age). But in the end they both realized their mistake, prayed to God for forgiveness, and went on to live lives of holiness, blessed with the gift of Jesus Christ.
May we, too, realize our faults during this Advent season, beg God for forgiveness, work to overcome our faults and doubts, and be prepared for the coming of the Christ. God doesn't shine as effectively through dirty windows!