From the time man invented fire, we have been both fascinated and afraid of this powerful force. Fire is power, raw, uncontrolled power. And most humans spend the bulk of their lives in a battle to control or obtain power.

Whether social power or personal power, we feel our best when we feel in control –of our lives, our surroundings, our relationships, and our world. This is the story of Babel, and it has never gotten old.

So, when we contemplate the Light coming into the world during this Advent season, we have to ask ourselves what we really think of that! Because Light, like fire, is power. Light changes everything it touches. And we are creatures not only obsessed with power (our own) but with making sure that power remains in our “safe” hands. The thought of an outside power somehow ch…