Tonight, we hear the antiphon: “O Key of David, opening the gates of God’s eternal Kingdom: come and free the prisoners of darkness.”  Immediately, two different themes pop out: David and darkness.  As was discussed in yesterdays antiphon, the Messiah was expected to come from the house of David because he was the greatest King that Israel ever had.  It only made sense to the Jews that the Messiah, the one who would save them all, would come from the same bloodline as the great King David.  For more on David check out yesterdays blog.

    The second theme of darkness is a common one in the scriptures.  Jesus tells us that he is the “light of the world” and who ever “follows [Jesus] will never walk in the darkness, but will have the light of life.”  (John 8:12) This is exactly how Jesus, as the Key of David, will free the prisoners of darkness.  We can also point to the prophet Isaiah who said: “the people who walk in darkness will see a great light; those who live in a dark land, the light will shine on them.”  (Isaiah 9:2)  

    Jesus Christ is the key who opened up the gates of heaven through His passion, death, and resurrection; all of which would not have been possible if he did not take on human flesh.  Jesus is the light of the world and we are called to also be that light and to shine brightly for all to see (Matthew 5:14).  As we continue our preparations to receive the light of the world, let’s continue to make ready our hearts to receive the light in us so we can share the light with all those we meet.