xmas 11: Perihelion Day

Today is Perihelion Day! This occurs about two weeks after every December Solstice, and on this day, Earth’s center is approximately 91,402,500 miles from the sun’s center. On this day, we can keep a lookout for the big ball of fire being at its largest.

The light of the world is at its largest at this point.

I find it interesting that Perihelion Day lands within the celebration of Christ’s birth. Both of these observances are celebrating something very similiar — the light of the world coming as close to earth as it has ever been. This closeness brings us a reminder that the source of all life may seem like a distant idea. God may seem unknowable and untouchable. Just like the sun, God is showing us on this Perihelion Day that the light of the world is closer to us than we think.

Know today and everyday that you are loved by this ever-present and most beautiful light.

Merry Christmas. Amen.