Old Woman and Boy with Candles (1617)

Rubens’ Old Woman and Boy with Candles hangs at The Hague and is a wonderful study of the effects of light. It was never made to be sold but was retained by the artist, perhaps as a model for pupils regarding illumination. The grandmother shields her face from the glow with a hand while the child waits for his candle to catch the flame, though her fingers come close to burning.

Not only do the candles radiate light, but they spread it. May we do likewise. 

Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. Matthew 5:14

10.10.10.10 meter (so it fits with Eventide, the common tune of 'Abide with Me'):

On Newby Hill, near Rimington so fair,
In Lancashire, a chapel worships there.
The Ribble Valley spreads below its door,
Where Martin Top will praise forevermore.

With hymns of old, traditional and sweet,
The congregation gathers at His feet.
The Word of God is preached, so pure and true,
And hope and joy transform our lives anew.

The blessed gospel echoes from this hill,
Of Jesus Christ, who saves and ransoms still.
To all who come, a healing peace is known,
As endless joy is found in Christ alone.

Now looking out beyond the valleys green,
To Burnley town, where harvest fields are seen.
A bright new church will soon begin to rise,
To lift the name of Jesus to the skies.

A D